Finding support at the right time: Matt’s story
When Matt met his CatholicCare Victoria (CCV) case worker, Neel, he knew things were going to change for the better.
When Matt met his CatholicCare Victoria (CCV) case worker, Neel, he knew things were going to change for the better.
After a devastating breakup, Matt decided to move back to Ballarat to start anew. But first, he was determined to go camping to clear his head and reset. Unfortunately, on his drive to the campsite, another car had crashed into his, head-on, changing Matt’s course.
He cancelled his trip and eventually made it to Ballarat, but with his car written off and his private rental falling through, Matt found himself suddenly unhoused.
Having lived in Ballarat previously and worked at the Salvation Army as a case worker himself, Matt was familiar with the community organisations in the area that could offer him help.
He turned to Uniting, who referred him to a short-term board and lodging accommodation, and then was referred to CCV, where he met Neel.
“Neel and I clicked on day one. Basically, I needed someone to advocate for me, and for that, I’ll give them 100 out of a 100. It’s been wonderful,” Matt says about the support he received.
Matt reflected on his past experiences that resulted in PTSD, and says Neel was always available for him, offering more than practical support. Neel genuinely listened, understood Matt’s unique situation, and offered emotional support in moments where Matt’s feelings overwhelmed him.
“I’ve worked in case management and counselling in the past, so I understand this stuff but when you’re in the situation, it’s quite overwhelming. I definitely got frustrated at the system, and Neel was immediately able to resolve that and reassure me. I just had to be patient and trust the help they had all given me. He just had the right words to say. He was the right person for the task and he could quickly balance (my emotions) out for me.”
Matt also commends the organisations that came together to offer him wrap-around support, stating that the lodge that he stayed at worked closely with CCV and other organisations to ensure his wellbeing. Thanks to their combined efforts, Matt was able to remain optimistic.
Today, Matt has a finally has a stable place to call home.
“It was what I needed; my own sanctuary and a place where I can get on with my life. It’s given me a kickstart and I’m a lot happier.” Although Matt is adjusting to the peace and quietness of his new home, he says he feels very relieved.
“During those six or seven months, sometimes a day felt like a thousand years. But I was able to bounce off Neel and the support has been fantastic. I didn’t feel like another number,” Matt says.
Neel says the trust and belief Matt had in him, gave him confidence as his case worker to advocate for him and apply to every housing opportunity available.
“We are in a housing crisis, so finding long-term housing can a bit of a long process. But Matt never lost his patience. He was optimistic and positive,” Neel says about the trusting relationship they had built with each other.
To anyone going through something similar, Matt’s advises, “hang in there! There’s always hope and you can always make a phone call. Patience and communication are very important.”
Community Connections offers support to people experiencing homelessness or who are at risk of homelessness, and advocates for their needs. The team can make referrals to community, health and social services, offer practical housing support and offers social opportunities for clients to connect with each other.
If you, or someone you know needs support, please reach out.
