When Arthur, 70, came to Revival, he was at one of the lowest points in his life. After undergoing knee surgery in April 2024, Arthur’s recovery took a difficult turn. He was readmitted to hospital just a few weeks later after feeling suicidal and stopping his medication.
In May 2024, the hospital referred Arthur to Revival for a full assessment and support with his housing situation. At the time, Arthur was staying with his son-in-law, sleeping on a bed in the front room of a terraced house. He was struggling with debt, managing repayments, and living with both physical and mental health challenges.
Arthur had a long history of depression and anxiety, but he also knew that having people visit and talk with him helped him feel more positive. Revival’s team understood that connection and stability were key to his wellbeing, so they built a plan around that.
Building Stability and Support
Revival’s welfare team visited Arthur to discuss what kind of help would make the biggest difference. Together, they agreed on a few important steps: to refer him to a local telephone befriending service, contact the DWP to check if he was entitled to any additional benefits, and explore assisted living options for the future.
These referrals were completed, and within weeks Arthur began to feel the difference. In July, he reached out to share how much Revival’s support had meant to him, especially the friendly phone calls and regular conversations that lifted his mood and helped him feel less alone.
The team soon got in touch to arrange his befriending service, and Arthur started to feel hopeful again. He told our team that he finally felt like he was getting the support he needed to rebuild his life.
A fresh start and a new community
By early 2025, Arthur was referred into Revival’s Housing Support Service by a locality connector. Although he was still living with his ex–son-in-law, he was continuing to struggle with both his mental health and mobility, using a wheelchair to get around.
Housing Support Worker Jo worked closely with Arthur to find a place that would give him both safety and community. Thanks to that support, Jo was able to secure Arthur a new home. Arthur was overjoyed, and extremely grateful for the care and persistence of everyone who helped him get there.
Once he moved in, Arthur began to flourish. He quickly settled into life, making friends and feeling stronger both physically and mentally. Revival then connected him with our face-to-face befriending service, and his first visit took place in June.
Since then, Arthur and his befriender have met six times, often over a friendly game of chess and good conversation.
Giving back to others
Arthur’s journey has come full circle. After experiencing the difference that friendship and support made in his own recovery, he’s now expressed an interest in becoming a befriender himself, a wonderful way to give back and help others who may be going through similar struggles.
Arthur’s story is one of resilience, hope, and reconnection. With the right support, he’s not only rebuilt his own wellbeing, he’s ready to help others do the same.
We’re here to bring your home to life
At Revival, we believe everyone deserves a safe, stable home and the chance to feel connected to their community. Whether it’s housing support, practical help, or simply a friendly voice on the phone, we’re here to make sure you never have to face life’s challenges alone.
If you or someone you know could benefit from our support, get in touch with the Revival team today, we’re here to bring your home to life. Call 0333 014 3389 or email the trusted team on hello@thisisrevival.org.uk
