How was it?

These are some of the comments made by people who used the advice service.

Thank you to everyone who helped me get a new place. In my old house I was on my own so I went out at six in the morning and got back at twelve at night. I only slept there. Now I'm with other people and I've got company. I want to spend my time working on the garden - I love gardening so I'm looking forward to it.

- Michael, May 2002

My name is Thomas and, in a short story, (which is fact), I am an alcoholic and even though I had a flat, I was lonely and started living on the streets and sometimes, I mean lots of times, in all sorts of weather.

I was introduced to the Booth Centre by a friend called Eric, he said I could get warm and get something to eat as well.

Like I said this is a short story, not only did they feed me and also gave me advice, I also could do art work, (which I got a certificate) and also first aid (another certificate). I am also a self harmer. They paid for my rehab and at present I am doing and feeling the best I have ever felt (thanks to the staff at the Booth - Amanda, Matt, Christine) and others. There's not enough paper in the world to say how many people and who they have helped.

Thanks a million.

- Thomas, June 2002

Highly unamused.

Pissed off, nowhere to go, no-one gives a fuck about other people. I suppose they've got the same problems to a greater or lesser degree. I can usually take it in my stride but this time I can't see a way out. Every way I turn is a brick wall but in the past I would usually climb over it or knock it down, lately, I haven't got the energy for either of those old ways out of things.

No-one seems to take my problems seriously, I think it's because I never usually complain or moan about my predicament. I've been coming here for nearly 5 years or so and have never asked for any help where housing is concerned and when I do I get the impression that they think "Ah well, it's only Peter, he'll be back to his old self soon" but I honestly can't see a way out of this one.

I honestly feel like overdosing or getting arrested. They would only say he couldn't handle life when the opposite is true it's just that I have had enough of living this kind of life. I don't for one minute think I am feeling sorry for myself cos I'm not, I just can't cope with it anymore and don't intend to, one way or another with or without help.

- Peter, June 2002

I am thankful for getting advice that I need. If I didn't come here for advice, I wouldn't be able to sort things out.

- Colin, January 2006

Good advice because usually it works if you follow it. I have found this out from personal experience! Eg. housing.

- John, January 2006

Generally good, but other agencies seem to delay the efforts of the staff.

- Warren, January 2006

The advice given to you is very good. Staff explain clearly so I can understand.

- Raymond, January 2006

I think it is an important part of the week, as this can help us to find out things + places we don't know.

- James, January 2006

It is good, helpful and improves my standard of living. It helps me to understand the needs of people and their lifestyles and the persons behind the lifestyles.

- Chantelle, January 2006

The advice is very good for people that find it difficult to do it themselves. If you have difficulties with the phone calls, writing letters, filling the forms, the staff can help people.

- Geoff, January 2006

You can get help to find a doctor, housing and job centre appointments.

- Adam, February 2006

The support from staff and others is of importance as you could sit in silence and not know the difference. You are greeted as a member of society with the help and advice from a team of professional and practical members of staff.

- Gary Summers, February 2006

I come when I've got any mail. Kevin or Matt phone for me to sort things out. I come here because I have nowhere to go.

- John Roberts, February 2006

It's very useful. I use phone calls for health reasons, to order drugs.

- Gerry, February 2006