Steve's Story
From Homelessness to a New Beginning
When Steve Davis arrived at Hope Housing, Training and Support on 21 July 2023, he was facing one of the most difficult periods of his life. Following a violent assault which left him with a bruised liver, fractured eye socket, split kidney and broken ribs, Steve had spent time in hospital and, upon discharge, found himself homeless and in need of support.
Accepted into Hope Housing, Steve was provided with a safe and stable place to live and the opportunity to begin rebuilding his life. Working closely with his support workers, Lisa and Ralphael, he engaged with counselling, therapeutic activities, personal development sessions and training opportunities.
Through counselling, Steve began to understand the causes of his anger and anxiety and was able to work through many of the issues that had affected him for years. As his confidence grew, so did his determination to create a better future.
"Through counselling I have learned why I used to get angry and I have worked through a lot of issues, and this has also helped my anxiety," said Steve. "I feel proud I have got my act together."
During his time at Hope, Steve achieved a number of important milestones. With the encouragement and support of staff, he successfully passed his driving test, giving him greater independence and confidence in his future.
Hope also supported Steve with housing applications, accessing the Rent Deposit Scheme, reconnecting with health services and developing important life skills, including budgeting and healthy eating.
Eventually, Steve achieved something that many people take for granted – a place of his own.
"Having my own set of door keys is an amazing feeling," he said. "To have my own space, where I can invite friends and cook for them is out of this world."
Knowing of Steve's passion for woodworking, which had begun when he learned skills from his grandfather as a child, Hope supported him to apply for a carpentry course at Bournemouth and Poole College before he moved on from the service.
On 4 July 2025, after almost two years with Hope Housing, Steve successfully moved on to independent accommodation. Although he is no longer a resident, he still keeps in touch with staff and remains a valued part of the wider Hope community.
Reflecting on Steve's journey, Director of Services Lisa Everett said:
"Steve had a lot of anger from his past which was causing difficulties in the present. Through support, counselling and attending personal development sessions, he was able to identify his triggers and gain a better understanding of himself and the impact his past experiences had on his life."
Steve's story demonstrates that with the right support, people can overcome trauma and homelessness, rebuild their confidence and create brighter, more independent futures. From surviving a life-changing assault to gaining his own home, passing his driving test and pursuing his passion for carpentry, Steve's journey is a testament to resilience, hope and the power of recovery.
"Having my own set of door keys is an amazing feeling. To have my own space, where I can invite friends and cook for them is out of this world." – Steve Davis