When Godwin arrived in Brighton, he was facing an uncertain future. In this blog, he shares his journey of rebuilding his life, the support he received from Voices in Exile, and how finding a safe place to stay has given him the confidence to look forward with hope.
“I first came to the UK three and a half years ago from India. It feels like only six months, the time has gone by so quickly.
My situation in my home country became unsafe and I was forced to leave and come to the UK. I was living in London at first, but I felt very isolated. I wanted to move somewhere where I could breathe, so I came to Brighton where I had a few friends who helped me find my feet.
When I was looking for help, someone recommended Voices in Exile. Meeting them changed my life. At that time, I was preparing to become homeless because I could not work while waiting for a decision from the Home Office.
Voices helped me to find a safe place to stay through local hosting arrangements. I have now stayed with three different households, and each experience has been very positive.
While I wait for a decision, I am studying hairdressing and welding at Brighton MET college through a scheme for people in my situation. Voices gave me the confidence to keep going, get involved in activities and stay hopeful about the future.”
