One of our outreach workers has been supporting Farid (real name not used). When our outreach worker first met Farid, he had just been granted asylum in Leeds, having left his home country due to war. Farid had been in the UK for a while, and although he was not able to work, he had been spending his free time as a volunteer translator for a charity, as he wanted to give back.
Farid found out that he had been granted asylum in Leeds, but this would now leave him temporarily homeless. As he had now been granted asylum, he was not able to stay at the temporary accommodation he had been living in as an asylum seeker. As he had not yet received his documents from the Home Office confirming his refugee status, he could not access emergency accommodation. Renting privately was not an option for him as he was not yet in receipt of benefits.
Farid had been desperately reaching out to services when he contacted us. Our outreach worker met Farid and looked through options with him, contacting different services to find support.
Fortunately, Simon on the Streets were able to organise a room at a b&b for a few weeks, through some funding from Big Change, whilst Farid waited for his temporary accommodation. We also provided Farid with food supplies and emotional support during this difficult time. Our outreach worker was also able to provide Farid with mental health support, and once his documents from the Home Office arrived we supported him in moving into temporary accommodation.
We are still in contact now and Farid, who is now settled into his new flat and looking for jobs!
Farid says:
“Simon on the Streets provided me with comfort in a hard transition in my life from asylum seeker to official refugee. Your advice and knowledge helped me in this difficult part of my life and I am grateful for all your kindness and help. My Gratitude to your honorable organisation.”