Longleigh’s Impact: Stuart’s experience

Posted on 29th July 2025

Stuart found himself in financial hardship and was living in a halfway house before he moved into his new home. Although it was a roof over his head, he found it uncomfortable and couldn’t have his children visit. So, when his new home came up, although further away than he wanted, he was happy to be able to call it his own. Coming from a halfway house meant he didn’t have anything, and he spent his first night sleeping on his coat.

Unsure where to turn, he reached out to Stonewater who told him about Longleigh and the grants they can offer.

After discussing his needs with Longleigh, he was offered a grant to buy a bed and a cooker. This made such a difference to Stuart, who has a medical condition that causes him to move around a lot in bed. The grant enabled him to buy a Kingsize bed, which has improved his wellbeing and means he no longer has to sleep on his settee. He was also able to improve his health by cooking proper meals, most importantly to Stuart was a good roast dinner!

Stuart has four children who are thriving in their education and employment. Living in the halfway house meant he wasn’t able to spend as much time with them as he wanted, however being in his new home meant that he could invite them over and, thanks to the grant he received, cook them good family meals.

With the money he saved with the grants, he was able to buy a settee and furnish his home to make it a comfortable place of his own.

Stuart wasn’t always in financial difficulty and said:

“If you come from having things to having nothing, you really appreciate the good and the bad times.”

Life can take unexpected turns, and anyone can find themselves struggling. Stuart didn’t think he’d be able to get any support however wants to encourage others to go for it and ask for help. He said “I just appreciate everything Longleigh have done for me. I wouldn’t be where I am now without the help they gave me and it’s made a big difference to my life. It’s also nice to know there’s people out there who want to help.”

*Names are changed and stock images are used to protect identities.

Would you like to share your experience? If you have received a grant or service from us, sharing your experience can help us raise more funds and help even more families.