Samantha's new start with the Improving Lives Project

When Samantha and her son Liam moved into their new home, they were starting over after an incredibly difficult period in their lives. Having experienced a traumatic event at her previous home, Samantha was living with PTSD and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and needed to move quickly to find a safe and stable environment.

That’s when we stepped in, but with just one week’s notice to relocate, Samantha found herself facing a daunting challenge. Like many people fleeing difficult circumstances, she had very little in the way of furniture, household essentials or savings to help her set up her new home.

Samantha was supported by our Improving Lives project, which helps tenants who need additional support to sustain their tenancy and create a safe, comfortable home. The project provides practical assistance such as decorating, carpeting, furniture and essential household items, helping people settle into their homes and build a positive future.

A washing machine, carpets for key areas including her son’s bedroom, and improvements to the kitchen and living room were made. This helped to transform her home into a welcoming space, giving Samantha one less thing to worry about during an already stressful period.

“It made such a big difference,” Samantha said. “Moving so quickly meant I had nothing and no money to get started. The support took a huge amount of pressure off me financially and helped me get settled much faster.”

Today, Samantha and Liam are thriving in their new home. Their property is close to local schools, shops and amenities, making life much easier.

“I love it here,” she explained. “We’re much more settled now and Liam is really happy. It feels like home.”

Samantha was particularly complimentary about the team who carried out the work.

“Sam was lovely and the quality of the work was great. I was really happy with the finished result. The team at Ongo have been fantastic and I’m so grateful for everything they did.”

Going forward Samantha says the project has given her reassurance that help is available whenever she needs it.

“If I ever need any support in the future, I know I can come to Ongo and they’ll help.”

For Samantha and Liam, our Improving Lives project was about far more than carpets and household items. It provided stability, security and a foundation on which they could begin the next chapter of their lives with confidence.

Since its launch the project has already made a significant difference, helping people to settle and stay in their home. Working alongside partners such as Southbank Carpets, we are set to continue the support.