Talking to the residents of our move-on homes

Our case study (referred to as OG) had been sleeping rough for several months after fleeing his shared accommodation. The environment in this shared accommodation was unpredictable and at times unsafe. Unfortunately, OG was assaulted by another resident, which left him feeling vulnerable and fearful. This resulted in him leaving the accommodation and quitting his job.

During the time he was rough sleeping, he experienced significant hardship - including health issues, exposure to the elements, and the constant fear of being harmed while sleeping on the streets.

With the support of the Rough Sleeper Team, OG was offered a temporary RSI property through Salford Council. This helped him rebuild his life to some degree but he still craved his own accommodation, something he could call home. OG was offered a one bedroomed flat with the Rough Sleepers Accommodation Programme (RSAP) He moved in earlier this year, marking the first time in years that he has had a secure place to call home.

The new accommodation has provided him with a safe and stable environment where he can lock his door, sleep without fear, and begin focusing on his wellbeing. OG described the move as “the first time I’ve felt properly safe in a long time.”

Since moving into his RSAP accommodation, OG’s confidence and sense of security have grown significantly. He has started to reconnect with support services, attend medical appointments regularly, and explore training opportunities with Salford University. He has also started working part-time with a cleaning company.  Having this safe, private space has allowed him to begin addressing both his physical and emotional recovery from the trauma of homelessness and the assault he experienced in shared housing.

The stability of permanent accommodation has given OG a foundation to build upon - not just a roof over his head, but a renewed sense of dignity, safety, and hope for the future.

OG’s journey highlights how access to secure, long-term housing can transform lives. Moving from rough sleeping and unsafe shared living conditions into RSAP accommodation has provided him with the safety, stability, and confidence to rebuild his life and work toward independence.