Julian started visiting Doorway at the beginning of 2006. He originally came to the centre to offer his time as a volunteer; however, after a period of time, Julian started opening up to the other volunteers and staff it became very apparent that his living conditions were not suitable.

Julian, aged 43, became homeless through debt problems and the breakdown of his family when his parents could no longer afford the mortgage, and he ended up living in a caravan.

"I had lived in a caravan on and off for about 20 years in Chippenham. Caravans are supposed to be for holidays, not a permanent home. Mine started falling to pieces and eventually became infested with rats."

Julian wasn't claiming benefits and took on odd jobs until his physical and mental health deteriorated to the extent that he was unable to work due to sleepness nights being kept awake by the rats.

Julian explains "I tried finding a place with the council, but paperwork has always been a problem for me and I found it too difficult."

Julian found out about Doorway through a friend and says that he didn't realise how many other people were in his situation before he came to the centre.

Julian is now living in a council house and says of Doorway: "It really is a lifeline and after being on the waiting list for a long time, I finally got one. I didn't expect to find accommodation and I was very pleased and it is a huge relief. The advice I got here was fantastic. But, even though I now have a home, I still come to Doorway."