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Ex student with mental health issues about to be homeless

(8 Posts)
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jura2 Sat 11-Jan-20 11:32:19

I hesitate to say too much on an Open Forum. But I am in touch with an ex student who has had a very tough life so far- abandonned and fostered, and a series of bad relationships, etc.

She finally got the courage to go to Uni in London, aged 44- but it was all too much and she ended up in hospital. Her relationship, and therefore home, in the Midlands has broken down. So when she comes out of Hospital, she will be homeless. Does not want to leave London as she is getting good therapy there.

I have advised her to go to the Salavation Army for help. but has anyone got other ideas to other organisations? Any ideas or advice I can pass on. Desperate situation. She is currently in East London.

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ladymuck Sat 11-Jan-20 12:04:09

Can't offer any advice, sorry, but this situation has become so common that something needs to be done. Hostels are the answer, surely. They would give people somewhere to stay while they get their lives organised. I know there are short-term places for people to stay, but something more long-term is needed.
My daughter works with people in this situation, people who previously would have been in a mental health institution. Since they were closed, these people have been abandoned.

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Septimia Sat 11-Jan-20 12:43:09

Is she still registered at uni? If so, she should be able to get some help from there, from student services or similar.

Other than that, I'm sorry, but I don't have any other ideas.

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GrandmaMoira Sat 11-Jan-20 13:16:48

Would the hospital social worker be able to help?

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GrannyGravy13 Sat 11-Jan-20 13:20:31

All hospitals have a "discharge co-ordinator" might be worth a try speaking to them.

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MiniMoon Sat 11-Jan-20 13:21:11

She could try Shelter.
Can the hospital help at all. If it's a mental health hospital they may well have half way houses available. Then there's the council.
Try this for information

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grannyactivist Sat 11-Jan-20 13:25:56

Health services should already support and refer patients who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, as part of their safeguarding responsibilities and normal daily work. Many London hospitals provide a 'Pathway' service for homeless people.

Shelter has a free helpline and can signpost your ex-student to the help she needs: 0808 800 4444

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BradfordLass72 Sat 11-Jan-20 14:33:22

What she probably needs most is someone to advocate for her and support her whilst she adapts and rebuilds her life.

Try these places:

www.nhs.uk/Services/Trusts/Overview/DefaultView.aspx?id=2709

www.mungos.org/our-services
whitechapel.online
www.hestia.org/ourjourney
www.mind.org.uk
www.elft.nhs.uk

There are many more in London but these are the Eastern ones.

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