HARP Residents have their say

Two HARP residents spoke about their experience of homelessness when they were interviewed for the Peter Holmes Show on BBC Radio Essex.

The interviews painted a picture of their lives: both prior to homelessness and during their time sleeping rough on the streets of Southend.

Tom explained that he felt his problems began through issues with alcohol abuse, leading to him being sent to prison followed by a period of a year's homelessness.

Now well on the road back to independent living, Tom cited the opportunity to partake in a Prince's Trust scheme as one of the stepping stones which have helped him regain control over his life and think about getting back into employment.

Speaking about the scheme, Tom said: "It's turned my life around".

To hear the interviews, which are available on BBC iPlayer until the 11th June, click here - the interviews commence 1 hour and 15 minutes into the programme.