DRUGS - BREAKDOWN, HOMELESSNESS - OFFENDING - ALIENATION

BREAKING THE CYCLE OF FAMILY BREAKDOWN

All too often, those who have been neglected or abused carry their experience on to the next generation. Adullam helps young women who have been disadvantaged in this way to find their own escape from the cycle of abuse and neglect.

"I came to Adullam because of domestic violence, to help my children re-settle again, in a better home. When I first came I was a complete wreck; I didn't dress properly and didn't look after myself. The staff at Adullam helped me to build up confidence again, and to realise that there is light at the end of the tunnel."

Responding to the need Adullam Homes has responded to the urgent needs of vulnerable young women and their children, and faces many challenging situations. Women who come to an Adullam project do so because they are homeless, often very young and because they need extra support before they can move on to their own tenancies. Sometimes they come because of severe problems in their lives. This may be domestic violence or other difficult circumstances that have led to their children being removed.

In an Adullam project, women will find: a place of immediate refuge; a place of security and friendship; an opportunity to enhance their life-style and skills; empowerment to be confident and independent; a chance to consider and plan for future prospects.

"Since coming to Adullam, I have been a lot happier and a lot more confident. I have met new friends and have had more of a life really. I also feel more secure, knowing that I can sleep well at night. "

Prospects for the future

New residents enter an environment where support counselling and advice is always available ranging from budgeting and economical cooking to baby hygiene and behaviour.

Friendly professional help covers all aspects of everyday living. At the move-on stage when residents are ready to leave the project, advice is given on the practicalities of setting up and sustaining a place of your own. Good quality, secure accommodation is a vital link to quality of life generally and is particularly important to the health of young children.

"For the future I intend for me and the children to be happy, to live life as normal as possible."

"If I was to make a personal recommendation about Adullam, I would say that you get the support you need. There is always advice and a friendly smile."

"If anyone was to ask me about this place, I would say get in here straight away because it has been the perfect answer for me."