Ian’s story

I had nothing….all I had was a camp bed and a garden chair.
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Ian had been working in a London hospital for many years until, at the age of just 56, poor health meant he had to retire early. Evicted from the flat that came with his job as a porter, Ian was made homeless.

“I had nothing….all I had was a camp bed and a garden chair”.

Having spent time in a “terrible” halfway house in London, friends from Hersham took Ian in, letting him sleep on their sofa.

“I didn’t want to outstay my welcome. They suggested that I should contact Walton Charity because they knew of their housing options. “

After receiving his application, Walton Charity were able to offer Ian a flat in one of our independent living schemes, Fenner House.

“I just couldn’t believe it. It was the best thing that had happened to me for a long, long time. I feel safe here. I feel secure.”

Ian now has a place to call home and, having discovered the Walton Charity allotments programme, he has also rediscovered a passion for gardening.

“I found out that Walton Charity had allotments and I was well pleased about that. It gives me so much pleasure and it gives me something to do – another part of independence. It keeps me fit too and I just love it!”

Walton Charity manages two independent living schemes, designed for people aged over 55 years. The flats are suitable for both single people and couples.

Last year, Walton Charity housed 115 people in their Independent Living schemes.