From Crisis to Confidence: Nicholas’ Story
When Nicholas first walked through the doors of Citygate Community Hub, he was facing some of the toughest challenges of his life. What he found was not just support, but a community that helped him regain his dignity, purpose, and hope for the future.
A guest meets one of our Community Hub caseworkers.
I first came to Citygate Community Hub in November 2023, nearly a year and a half ago. After losing my job, I became ill with depression. I had no money – none at all; no food; and nobody to turn to. I found myself passing my local church, Lansdowne Church. I’m not a practising Christian, but I remembered that if you were in trouble, you could go to a church and there would be someone there who would listen and talk to you without judgement – and might be able to help. So, I went in and explained how I felt like my back was against the wall. They listened carefully and told me about Citygate – that there was a dedicated team there who could support me from start to finish.
I had passed Citygate before and noticed how busy it was inside, but I had no idea about the support and services available. I was excited to come and visit.
When I first came, I was greeted by Malcolm at Reception, smiling and noting my referral details on the computer. I don’t know what age Malcolm is, but if you could bottle Malcolm, we’d all be rich! I thought, “God, this is going to be good!” These guys know what they’re doing. It was an amazing first impression. From him and the rest of the team, I could tell you’re a ‘can do’ group of people – the word ‘can’t’ just doesn’t come into the equation here.
During my visits to Citygate, I’ve had some wonderful conversations with the food bank team, who treated me like a friend in need from the start. Berni, my caseworker, has always been there for me. She connected me with all the advisers I needed for my separate problems and told me about the Digital Skills Hub. I’ve since completed a five-week basic digital skills course to help me manage my life.
Tom from Bournemouth Water provided valuable guidance and practical water-saving gadgets. Maggie (Citizens Advice BCP) and Steven, my debt adviser (Faithworks CMA), resolved some major problems in my life – the difference they’ve made has been huge! Maggie helped me apply for Universal Credit and the Household Support Fund, and Steven advocated for me with BCP Council, my utility providers and my bank.
I was also given a six-month SIM card so I could make and receive calls, and I even had my old fridge-freezer swapped for a new one at no cost by LEAP, who were incredibly professional about it.
All this has enabled me to ‘bow out’ of needing a food bank, fill my cupboards and fridge-freezer, budget, and have the dignity of shopping in a supermarket – all because I came to Citygate Community Hub. I realise now how important it is to have all those key cogs here to sort out anyone’s problems – whatever they may be – from start to finish.
Citygate Community Hub has been life-changing. The first thing I experienced was that the team treated me like an individual, not a number. That’s the big thing about this organisation and its people. Since meeting you guys, I’ve tried to treat other people I meet in the same way, and have even brought a stranger I would have previously passed by into Citygate to receive your help. I’m more determined than ever to be involved with local projects helping others.
Seriously, it’s been life-changing. Before, I had no one who noticed me, and no money for even the basics – things like toothpaste or a haircut. I stopped caring about myself. But now, I get up in the morning, I’m organised, I’m methodical, I’ve got focus. I shave every day, I see friends twice a week, and I’m even planning a trip to France. Having the right support gave me back my dignity – I finally feel like me again.
To the team at Citygate Community Hub – please keep on doing what you’re doing. It’s crazy – nice crazy. To anyone who is experiencing difficulties at the moment – don’t give up! There will always be someone to help you.
— Nicholas, Community Hub Guest