Fatima was living on the streets for more than seven years when she was referred to St Mungo’s – here she tells the story of how she was supported, and how her self-esteem has improved through art and creativity.
Life before the streets
I’m from Glasgow, Scotland in a very working-class area. I went to school there and secondary school too. I worked for a long period of time in the hotel industry, cooking and cleaning and in people’s houses too.
I studied full time and got a first-class Masters in social sciences, arts and economics. I kept on working after I finished my studies – in research for a long time, a job for the Post Office, worked in trade unions and then for a campaigning charity. I helped on campaigns which welcomed refugees and others with low wages.
I travelled the world for a number of years! Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Pakistan, Spain, France, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Holland and Belgium – lots of interesting places!
“The world isn’t that safe”
I was homeless for seven or eight years and life was quite a struggle. It was tough, but I made a lot of friends during that time, often people in the same position as me.
I was rough sleeping in London and the North East. It was an interesting experience. You had to question a lot of things when you’re in a bad position. Sometimes you had to negotiate with people about where to sleep, always trying to be respectful, tidy and clean. Finding people to talk and chat to.
It was very difficult in the cold weather. I remember Christmas’ and New Year’s it was so bad. I remember Christmas Day feeling alienated and not a lot going on, where nowhere was open – it was not a holiday at all.
You learn how to look after yourself and become aware of dangers too. You think of things like being attacked and become aware of issues like domestic violence – that the world isn’t that safe, as a male and especially as a female.
Finding St Mungo’s
The St Mungo’s frontline team came and spoke to me on the street, and I spent some time in hospital before I was referred to a St Mungo’s service. When I was out on the streets I’d heard lots of good things about St Mungo’s, so I was really happy to be here.
I was given tea, something to eat, someone to chat to – it was the winter period. There is such good hospitality here and you have your own room, somewhere to watch TV, a bathroom and kitchen to use too if you want to cook.
St Mungo’s has provided me with opportunities and helps people realise their potential. It has given me the chance to do things I was always looking to do – things we have inside of us. St Mungo’s give you something to aim for, which helps build your self-esteem.
I do fine art, which is painting and drawing and abstract art. I grew up in a very poor area and I couldn’t be out in the street for long periods of time. So I was in the house a lot and my Dad would be happy for me to be creative indoors.
I studied art at secondary school too. At university or when I had time off, I’d sometimes draw things but never got time to develop it like I have now. It really helps my mental health, overcomes blockages and brings out the best in what I do.
I’m going to do two courses in the spring in Camden, one of them is in fine art. Another is in sketchbook drawing – both to develop drawing and painting. I also start an acting course in April – I’ve not done theatre since school! I’m excited for it.
When you come to St Mungo’s, it’s for a better life and you can access opportunities which weren’t there before – bringing happiness to people’s lives.
