Peter's Story
Peter's art which was included in the Booth Centre's 'ME' portrait exhibition - Summer 2017
"I came out of prison and was due to go and stay in a hostel, but found out they couldn’t accommodate me due to my health problems. I went to the Town Hall and they helped me get into a different temporary hostel. I had no money and no security, having lived abroad for a number of years I had no idea where to start with claiming benefits and finding support. My head was in bits to be honest. My sister found out about the Booth Centre and gave me information on how to find it.
I came to the Booth Centre with all these complicated forms to fill in, and the staff helped me sort out my finances and supported me to register with the GP. Just having someone to talk me through it all was really helpful. I started to come to the centre every day for meals and to join in the different activity sessions. Drama, art and sewing have really helped me come out of my shell and helped me to build my confidence again. I have had my art displayed in public exhibitions, and it's made me really proud! When I’m here, around people, keeping busy I don’t feel down or depressed, there’s no time to dwell on your problems.
When I started to feel better, I wanted to give something back, so started to volunteer at the Booth Centre. I like spending time talking to the people who come in, just listening and telling them about my story can help them to feel better and let them know how to get support. Every time I come here I’m elated! I keep getting moved around in my accommodation, so the Booth Centre is the one steady thing in my life keeping me grounded. I look forward to being here, I feel safe here."
I came to the Booth Centre with all these complicated forms to fill in, and the staff helped me sort out my finances and supported me to register with the GP. Just having someone to talk me through it all was really helpful. I started to come to the centre every day for meals and to join in the different activity sessions. Drama, art and sewing have really helped me come out of my shell and helped me to build my confidence again. I have had my art displayed in public exhibitions, and it's made me really proud! When I’m here, around people, keeping busy I don’t feel down or depressed, there’s no time to dwell on your problems.
When I started to feel better, I wanted to give something back, so started to volunteer at the Booth Centre. I like spending time talking to the people who come in, just listening and telling them about my story can help them to feel better and let them know how to get support. Every time I come here I’m elated! I keep getting moved around in my accommodation, so the Booth Centre is the one steady thing in my life keeping me grounded. I look forward to being here, I feel safe here."