Castro is a Duty Worker at a St Mungo’s accommodation service. He shares the journey that’s led him to where he is today, and what makes him proud about supporting our clients.
I’ve been with St Mungo’s for nearly 15 years now, and at the moment I’m based in a 17-bed service supporting people with complex mental health needs.
My role involves managing the building, overseeing repairs and safety systems, and making sure everything runs smoothly.
But just as importantly, I’m here to spend time with our clients, have a chat and make sure they feel supported.
We offer a home for people who have experienced homelessness, sometimes for a long time. Some arrive directly from a St Mungo’s No Second Night Out hub, while others come to us from hospital, helping prevent them from being discharged back onto the streets. People can stay for up to three years, giving them time to work through challenges and rebuild their lives.
When someone first arrives, we help them settle in and access the support they need. Many people have no idea what benefits they might be entitled to or where to begin.
After spending time homeless, it can be difficult to know how to get back on your feet. We work with benefits advisers, social services and local authorities to make sure people receive the help they deserve.
My journey with St Mungo’s began in a very different role. I started as an agency worker, cleaning and carrying out maintenance tasks at one of the services. The manager saw something in me and asked if I would like to join the team permanently.
I’ve always been someone who enjoys helping others, and I soon realised I wanted to make this my long-term career. A manager called Vicky encouraged me to study for a Level 3 Diploma in Nursing alongside my job. I went on to complete a degree in Health and Social Care and then a master’s in project management, all while remaining at St Mungo’s.
Looking back, going from cleaning services to the role I do today is a big change, and there have been so many memorable moments along the way.
One is a gentleman I met, who always wore a suit and kept to himself. He eventually opened up and explained he had worked for the BBC before a relationship breakdown led to him losing his home. It reminded me that everyone has a life story, and circumstances can change in an instant.
But watching clients grow in confidence and find happiness again makes me incredibly proud. Saying goodbye when someone moves on can be bittersweet, but it’s rewarding to see how far they’ve come.
For me, supporting St Mungo’s means helping people reclaim their lives. People who were once sitting on the street can go on to learn new skills, build careers and find a place to call home.
For someone sleeping rough or facing homelessness, having a safe and stable home can feel a long way away.
St Mungo’s is there to support people at every step.
Real change doesn’t happen
overnight. But with your help, it can start tonight.
For someone sleeping rough or facing homelessness, having a safe and stable home can feel a long way away.
St Mungo’s is there to support people at every step.
Real change doesn’t happen
overnight. But with your help, it can start tonight.