Abena – a Groundswell volunteer story

Before finding Groundswell and moving into my own flat, I lived in accommodation for women experiencing homelessness in Marylebone. While there, I became famous for supporting other women with benefits forms, writing to housing providers, and speaking to the GP.

When I joined Groundswell, I trained as a volunteer Homeless Health Peer Advocate, using my people skills to build rapport and help people attend their health appointments. I speak four languages, meaning people can often communicate with me in a way that they can’t with healthcare professionals.

Over the years, my role has grown, and I now also help the Progression team. Having benefited from Progression support myself, I am perfectly placed to help my fellow volunteers with applying for benefits, liaising with the DWP and the Job Centre, and much more.