Since 1993, Two Step has housed over 8,000 people. Behind each person is a story of dignity restored, stability rebuilt, and a future made possible.
As Bridget, a Two Step staff member, says: “Every person housed represents a new beginning.” She adds, “My work at HOPE worldwide has taught me not to underestimate the impact of feeling safe and listened to. People are often carrying far more than anyone sees, and even small acts of consistency and support can make a lasting difference.”
Here are just a few of those stories.
*Dawit was rough sleeping in a car park in Croydon for a month before a church signposted him to Two Step. The team quickly found him accommodation, helping him get off the streets, and Dawit said, “I was so happy with the respect shown to me by the HOPE worldwide staff.”
For Nora, the journey to safety began after bitterly cold nights in Raynes Park, when each night made her feel like she was losing herself. “It’s terrible. I felt so bad when the wind came. There’s nowhere to hide.”
She later found support through Two Step and said, “HOPE worldwide gave me a second chance, a place to lay my head. You sleep, you wake up and you make a meal. You feel like starting up again. I can’t express my gratitude.”
Danny had to leave his home in Newham after a bereavement and was living in squats and surviving on the streets. Through a referral to HOPE worldwide, he found a room in a house that gave him a platform to build for the future. “That’s an emotional moment, holding a set of keys,” he said. Now, he is about to complete his law degree.
Built on trust and partnership
Two Step now works in partnership with over 30 organisations that refer people to our team for help, aiming to reach them before crisis hits. That hope can become reality through trusting relationships built with over 20 landlords, agents, and other accommodation providers.
This achievement has been made possible through years of commitment from staff, partners and supporters, as well as the trusted relationships built with landlords and accommodation providers. Together, these connections allow the team to respond quickly and effectively when help is needed most.
The team would like to thank and acknowledge all former team members who helped make this milestone achievement possible, many of whom are featured on the canvas held in the picture.
Thank you for standing with Two Step and helping make these life-changing moments possible.
To learn more about Two Step, click here.
*Name changed to protect confidentiality
