LATH news and events

I started taking drugs at the age of 15 and progressed over the years to more dangerous types like cocaine and heroin. After four or five months sleeping rough on the streets and having alienated my family and friends, I managed to get the courage to ask for help and start to change my life. When I arrived at LATH all I had was the clothes I stood in. I had no money, was seriously underweight at just eight stones and my mental health was at an all time low. At LATH I felt accepted straightaway. They offered me food, clothing, help and advice. It meant a lot. I’ll never forget that day. I then came to LATH every Tuesday and Thursday for months after that. The encouragement I received every week kept me going and it was good for my mental health. I have, since then, been able to slowly turn my life around and in February this year I celebrated being drug and alcohol free for one year. I have a place to live, I can control my money, I eat healthily and have gained five stones in weight. Life is better now, but I still come to LATH. Now, when I can, I help the volunteers set up the tables and sort out donated clothes. It’s my small way of giving back for the help and support that I received.

I came to LATH after my PIP (Personal Independence Payment) was reviewed and during the appeal I had no money for food or electric. I was desperate. At LATH they made me feel welcomed from the first day I went there. They offered me a hot meal and helped me with food, sanitary products and some money to heat my flat. I still come to LATH. It breaks my day and helps give me structure and routine. The volunteers are nice and helpful and I can talk to other people which is all positive for my mental health.