After being thrown out of his childhood home aged just 17, Wayne turned to rough sleeping and sofa-surfing. He began selling and using drugs, which ended in him serving a 6-year prison sentence. 

Wayne struggled to return to normal life after leaving prison. He managed to secure himself a job and started a relationship, but was made redundant and turned back to drugs to cope with unemployment. 

Wayne sought support at Hope House after another period of rough sleeping. Wayne then met Lawson Main, a pastor who works closely with Hope House to support clients. They worked together to sign Wayne up to a 10 month rehab facilitation unit.

During his rehabilitation, Wayne was able to reflect on the impact drugs had had on his life so far. He explained that his drug use had led to devastating side-effects; whilst using Black Mamba, a legal high (made illegal in 2016), Wayne had contracted pneumonia which almost led to him losing his life. Black Mamba had also permanently affected his memory- Wayne was unable to remember the names of friends and family, some of whom he had known for years. 

Once completing rehab, Wayne expressed a desire to become a youth worker, supporting young people who are vulnerable to becoming homeless and dependent on drugs and alcohol. Wayne said: 

“I’m really thankful for support given by Hope. Without guidance from Support Workers, I could be dead by now.”