Finding peace and a place to call home for Martin

Finding a fresh start at Ivy House

Before settling into his flat at Ivy House, Martin had already lived a full and varied life. Growing up in Wrexham, he went on to serve in the Royal Air Force, work as a firefighter in Scotland, and spent eleven years as a hospital porter. He’s even worked as a senior support worker in a high-security mental health facility, a job where, as he puts it, "nothing would shock you anymore."

After years of working in different roles and serving his community, life took an unexpected turn and Martin found himself at Lindley House, a local homeless shelter.

"The main challenge was keeping yourself to yourself and not getting involved in any trouble," Martin recalls. "But my background gave me the experience to cope. You learn that people are just people: you say hello, get on with everyone, and keep your head down."

While life at the shelter was tough, Martin held onto the advice of his key worker to stay patient, trusting that good things come to those who wait.

That patience eventually paid off.

A new chapter at Ivy House

After six months at the shelter, Martin was offered a studio flat at Ivy House, a sheltered housing community for older people.

"I was nearly in tears when I went to visit," Martin says. "I’m 60, and I just thought, 'What have I done to deserve this?' When I moved in, the relief was immediate. It felt like home right away. There was no fear, no confrontation, just peace and quiet."

Moving day came with a warm, personal welcome from the staff on site.

"It’s actually a bit of a story," Martin laughs. "I dropped all my stuff at the front door, and Alisha from the team met me right away to help get everything up in the lift. She was brilliant and so friendly. Within an hour of arriving, the team helped bring all my furniture up, and we put the kettle on. The staff and residents couldn't do enough to help me settle in."

Making a flat a home

Moving into Ivy House meant Martin could finally unpack and make the space his own. It did not take him long to get comfortable and build a daily routine around the things he enjoys.

"My flat is beautiful," he says. "I’ve got a lovely two-seater sofa and an armchair and my favourite thing is definitely the TV. I love watching quiz shows like Tenable, Tipping Point, and crime dramas. I’ve been playing along with TV quizzes for almost 40 years and have even applied to be a contestant on the new Millionaire Hot Seat show!"

While he values having his own quiet flat, Martin also enjoys getting out into the shared spaces and spending time with his neighbours.

"You can usually find me out in the back garden or on the patio on sunny days," he explains. "It is a nice spot to sit, enjoy the weather, and catch up with people. One of my favourite memories so far was the barbecue we had for Abbeyfield's 70th anniversary. The food was unbelievable, family and friends came along, and everyone enjoyed a few drinks together in the dining room."

Enjoying a slower pace of life

Having his own flat gives Martin the independence to enjoy daily routines at his own pace.

"When I wake up in the morning, I put the kettle on before taking a shower," he shares. "I look at the day ahead and think about how lucky I am to have this place. A typical day for me now is nice and gentle. I get the washing done, go for a walk, maybe enjoy a couple of quiet pints in the afternoon and live with zero drama."

Living at Ivy House has also given him the base he needs to explore the local area and re-engage with his hobbies. From taking walks through Wellington Park and visiting the local sports centre, to planning trips metal detecting for military memorabilia or visiting old friends in Minehead, Martin’s schedule is happily filling up.

"I’m looking forward to getting involved locally," Martin says. "I’m joining the local bowling club, which runs trips away, and I’m slowly finishing off furnishing my flat."

What home means today

After months of uncertainty, having his own flat has given Martin back his independence. For him, home is somewhere quiet where he can feel safe and settled.

"Security, stability, and independence. It means everything," Martin says. "The biggest difference between living here and the shelter is having your own space without any threat or confrontation. You have staff around who care, lovely neighbours, and a place where you can sleep peacefully at night."

"It’s just knowing I can come and go as I please, live my life, and have a real home to come back to."

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