'Two days later we collected him from the forest' - Kilkenny homeless charity shares story

The Good Shepherd Centre in Kilkenny took to social media recently to share the remarkable story of one of their service users.

The story highlights how homelessness can come in many forms and how every service user requires an individual approach for the best outcome.

Repossessed home of Catriona Carey now on the Kilkenny property market

Read below:

Declan is a 46 years old man. He left home at 18 and finished his apprenticeship as a carpenter.

Looking back, Declan now recognises that he was at odds with the world, at home, at school, all over his life.

Declan has one child from a short term relationship in Paris. Who he hasn't seen since she was three years old.

Seven years ago following a series of events Declan took to the streets. 

Two years ago he wanted total seclusion and went to live in a remote forest.

Over time this took a huge toll on his health.

Bennettsbridge well worth a visit this Christmastime

One day on his battery operated radio he heard our CEO speaking about what we where doing in housing.

He rang asking to speak to Noel. Two days later we collected him from the forest. What then began was a massive transition.

Shelter an obvious solution also became Declan's prison. In the first days and weeks he would sometimes sleep outside to normalise his feelings. With intensive support he accessed his own home 4 months later.

A home for Declan was a structural solution at first not an emotional one. It took time for him to connect to the place, to adjust to the sense of confinement and general noise.

Rough sleeping comes in many forms. It's hugely challenging for people who long term slept out to readjust. With intensive supports many do.

The Good Shepherd Centre works with homeless men, women, families and those at risk of becoming homeless, in Kilkenny and its environs.

Repossessed home of Catriona Carey now on the Kilkenny property market

We offer emergency accommodation, transitional housing and resettlement services with the aim of returning people to sustained independent living.

If you are homeless or in need of a service, CLICK HERE.