Kyle spiralled into debt due to being in a relationship involving domestic violence. He began spending his earnings on drugs and alcohol instead of bills, to hide what was happening in his relationship, but it quickly got out of control.
“The whole situation made me feel weak, it made me feel worthless, like the world was on my shoulders.”
When Kyle finally escaped the relationship, he moved into DENS’ homelessness hostel, The Elms. He had lost everything and felt scared, but he needed help.
During his time at The Elms, Kyle received weekly support from a Key Worker to help get his life back on track – including support for his alcohol and substance dependencies. He was referred to in-house counselling through the Therapy Centre, where he describes the opportunity to open up about his past as “one of the best things I’ve ever done.”
The Cost of Living Support service, in partnership with Liberty Community Money Advice, also helped Kyle get back in control of his finances. Together with his Money Mentor, they worked out what his regular income and expenditure were, and what exactly he owed to creditors. After around six months of tailored support, Kyle became debt free.
“Being debt free means I have confidence again, so I’m not scared of opening a letter or answering my phone anymore. The weight has lifted off my shoulders and I feel free. In my Money Mentor, I couldn’t have asked for someone more caring, non-judgmental and easy to talk to.”
Today, Kyle lives independently in a Move On property managed by DENS, and he loves it. “This was such a big step for me. It feels like home, and I even get to have my mum over for dinner!”
Kyle also received support from the DENS Employment Coach, who helped him “get back into the world” by arranging a work experience placement at The Kitchen Café – a collaborative social enterprise project in Hemel Hempstead.
This experience gave Kyle the confidence, as a qualified masseuse, to rent a chair at a local spa and return to an industry he loves – where he is gradually starting his own business.
Kyle continues to receive guidance from DENS until he is ready to live fully independently. “The support DENS provides is exceptional. The staff are always happy to help, no matter what they are doing or who they are, and I will be forever grateful for that.”
Reflecting on his journey with DENS, Kyle feels that his confidence has blossomed and he now looks at his past in a different way.
“Through DENS, I have learnt that there’s nothing to be ashamed of being homeless. It could happen to anyone at any time in their life, and it happened to me. It has opened a whole new world where I want to help and give back to the community that has allowed me to rebuild my life.”
Please note: Kyle’s name, image and details of his story have been changed to protect his anonymity.
Story published 28th July 2026