My Story: A New Chapter with Changing Futures

My name is Michaela, but everyone here at Changing Futures, calls me Mac.

A couple of years ago, when I was living on the streets, I couldn’t have imagined being where I am now.  I’d never been homeless before and I found it really hard.

That’s when Changing Futures came into my life. I was referred here from the drug and alcohol service, Renew, and everything started to shift.

Changing Futures bring together lots of different services in Hull, all under one roof. They don’t work in silos. They work together, and they work with you.

My support worker Colleen (or Coll as we call her) is the best. She helped me get the property I’m living in now. At first, I moved in with my ex, but now it’s just me, and I love it. It’s near where I was born, so I know the area well. I feel safe and settled, and I don’t want to leave.

Coll didn’t just help me find a home - she helped me rebuild my life. I have children who are adopted, and thanks to her, I’ve got letterbox contact again. She’s even offered to help me write to them. That means everything to me.

I’ve also stopped drinking. It’s been a few months now since I’ve had any alcohol, and I’m proud of myself. I go to AA meetings at a local village hall, who are so supportive.

The first time I went, I was nervous, but everyone was so welcoming. When I went back the next week, they were surprised, but I’m sticking with it. Knowing I’ve got support gives me the strength to keep going.

Coll also got me involved in something called Lived Experience. I didn’t know what that was until Coll mentioned it, but now I'm part of it, I love it. I attend meetings with managers and ambulance crews, sharing my story and making suggestions to shape services for others going through tough times.

And because I’m a big Hull FC fan, Coll arranged for me to join a foundation group they run for people who’ve experienced homelessness. I’ve been going every single week, and as a surprise, I got to attend their last home game. I’d never been to one before, and I had the time of my life.

Coll always says I inspire her, but she inspires me too. She’s been there every step of the way, but she reminds me that I’ve done the hard work.

I chose to stop drinking. I chose to go to AA. I chose to get involved.

Changing Futures gave me the support, but I made the steps. Now, I’m choosing to keep going- onwards and upwards.