Veteran Gary Bowman was at risk of homelessness, but with our help he’s now got his own flat.
Gary served in both the Navy and the RAF, but after he transitioned he moved in with his mother when his marriage broke up.
Unfortunately, Gary’s mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s after he moved in, so the council started making plans to move her to a new home.
This put Gary in danger of becoming homeless as he had nowhere else to live.
He called RBL, and we were able to put him in touch with PATH, a local homeless charity, and provide support.
“My mum was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, so we were looking to downsize her and put her into sheltered accommodation.
"I was told that I would be made homeless as I was only down as a non-dependent and I couldn’t stay in the property."
Contacting RBL
“I was depressed, it was always on the back of my mind because I was worrying if my mum got a place and then I’d have to move out and I didn’t have any family that could help out.”
It was Gary’s uncle that suggested he get in touch with us.
After getting in contact we were able to refer him on to Plymouth Access To Housing (PATH), a local organisation specialising in housing and homelessness in Plymouth who ensured that Gary didn’t fall through the cracks.
Everyone needs help at some point, and The Royal British Legion can provide that.
“That’s when I got in touch with RBL, and I’ve not looked back. All in all, it’s been about six months since I got in touch to getting a property, so it’s been quick," added Gary.
“Now I’ve got complete control. I pay my own rent, I can budget, I can pay my bills, I can see my daughter when I want. Now I can see a future for me. It’s absolutely fantastic."
