From Struggle to Stability: Tijani’s Journey to Independence with Support from Northbridge Housing

When I first arrived in Birmingham, I didn’t know where to turn. I was unfamiliar with the city,
worried about my health, and unsure how I would manage financially. Everything felt
overwhelming, and I didn’t know where to begin. Thankfully, I was introduced to Northbridge
Housing, and from that moment things started to change.
The team welcomed me warmly and quickly found me a safe and comfortable place to stay. Having
a stable home gave me peace of mind and allowed me to start focusing on other important parts
of my life. For the first time since arriving in the UK, I felt secure.
One of the things that made a huge difference was having staff members who spoke my
language. Being able to explain my concerns without struggling for words gave me comfort and
reassurance. Whenever I had a question—about health, money, or even daily routines—the staff
were my first point of call. They listened, explained things clearly, and made sure I never felt alone.
Northbridge also helped me access medical support that I urgently needed. They guided me
through registering with a GP, attending hospital appointments, and understanding prescriptions.
With their help, I was finally able to manage my health properly. Knowing that someone cared
about my wellbeing gave me the confidence to keep moving forward.
Because of my age and health, working was not possible for me. Instead, the staff supported me
in applying for the right benefits so that I could live independently and with dignity. They explained
each step of the process, helped me fill in forms, and made sure I understood what I was entitled
to. They also showed me how to manage my money, budget for essentials, and keep on top of
bills—something that felt impossible before their support.
With this stability, I have been able to focus on looking after myself. My health is more stable, I feel
less isolated, and I am more confident in managing daily life. I no longer live with the constant fear
of not knowing what tomorrow will bring.
Looking back, I know that none of this would have been possible without Northbridge Housing.
Their support went far beyond providing accommodation. They gave me the tools, the
encouragement, and the belief that I could live independently again. I cannot recommend them
enough.