ForHousing has stepped in to find a home for an army veteran who was made homeless by his previous landlord.
Dennis, who served his country in the Falklands, Northern Ireland and the Middle East, was forced out of his home in Salford by his landlord’s intimidating behaviour and unreasonable rent increases and had to camp outdoors with his two dogs.
Now he is in a stable home after ForHousing, which owns and manages more than 24,000 homes across the North West, supported him in moving away from life on the streets.
The progressive landlord first worked together with Salford City Council to find Dennis temporary accommodation, before going on to secure him a more permanent home in local sheltered housing.
ForHousing has been awarded a Silver award by the Ministry of Defence for their support of veterans and is signed up to the Armed Forces Covenant, which is a promise to ensure that those who serve or have served and their families, are treated fairly within their community.
Dennis said: “Having the security of a life-time tenancy has made a massive difference to my life! I absolutely love my flat and I intend to stay here for a very long time.
“I’ve made friends with lots of my neighbours which has really boosted my mental health and my stress levels have reduced hugely too.
“I was surprised as well to find that my physical health has improved enormously too. I love taking my dogs for walks in a field nearby.”
Martyn Hague, Director of Neighbourhoods at ForHousing, added: “Dennis has been able to find a safe place to call home in a community he is proud to live in. He has taken a positive step forward and his wellbeing has improved dramatically.
“It shows what a difference quality homes and places make and is a great example of why we are so committed to making more things possible for more people.
“We will continue to support veterans like Dennis to find homes where they can feel comfortable and content.”
Vicky Doran, Regional Employer Engagement director at the North West of England and the Isle of Man Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association (NW RFCA), said: “On behalf of the Ministry of Defence we are honoured to be able to recognise the support and commitment given to the Armed Forces Covenant by employers in the region, through the Employer Recognition Scheme awards.
“Each recipient has demonstrated not only that they support the Covenant and the Armed Forces community, but also that they are prepared to support their Reservists, Service Leavers, Veterans and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers in the workplace.”
Image: metodej/Shutterstock
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