Last month, we received a letter from someone who had been supported at the Rapid Re-accommodation Welcome Centre in 2023.
The letter was headed, ‘How Bethany Changed My Life’ and tells the story of this individual’s journey from addiction and homelessness to a new life, supported by Bethany and thriving in their own flat.
With permission, we are sharing this story as an insight into the life-changing impact of the Welcome Centre. As the season rolls on, the team are tireless in their efforts to provide emergency support with effective long-term support, helping people who have been sleeping rough to find a hope and a future…
“I first moved from Glasgow to Edinburgh in 2020.
As someone who has battled addiction for over 20 years, I’ve been to many rehabs, but none have really done it for me.
At this point I was in cycle of drug fueled, violent, argumentative relationships. In October 2023, myself and my partner decided to take a break to try and both get off heroin.
I got on Methadone script, slept rough for a couple of weeks then managed to get a place in the Haymarket Hub [location of the Welcome Centre].
This was the start of my journey.
I got referred to Bethany House in Leith. Straight away I was made to feel welcome, just as I was with Bethany staff at the Welcome Centre.
I quickly settled in and, after a couple of weeks, I was around 6 months clean of heroin. I was so happy…
At this point I hadn’t spoken to my son or family for nearly 2 years. I reached out to my Mum and son to tell them I was in a better place… and this time I meant it.
As time went by I was maintaining relationships with my son and family.
Unfortunately, in March 2024 my partner died.
I was devastated… things were going round my head… But due to the support of my key worker, I never relapsed. From then on, with support and willpower, I was able to treat any difficult situations totally different.
Before: violence, drugs and alcohol were my go-to response. Now: I find myself walking away and feeling much better for it. I had kicked the heroin, next was the alcohol. This wasn’t so easy as it’s so readily available, but again, engaging with my keyworker, I fought the battle.
Fast forward to November 2024 – I look, feel and act like a better version of myself. Bethany got me my own flat which I move into today. So, thank you all at Bethany, you changed my life.”
You can read more about the ongoing work of the Welcome Centre and Bethany House by clicking the buttons below: