Some of you might have met Jakub last year when we shared his story as part of our 2022–23 Impact Report. Last year, following Jakub’s stay in hospital to treat his lung cancer, an exception was made to house Jakub at our Southbank crisis accommodation site long term while his cancer treatment continued. Here’s an update on how he is doing.

Secure housing means being able to focus on health and hobbies

The journey into housing was a long one for Jakub, having stayed in Launch Housing’s Southbank Crisis Supported Accommodation for 26 months. His case manager made several referrals until finally, in May 2024, Jakub secured a flat in transitional housing.

In his new home, Jakub is able to focus on his health. He has six-monthly follow up appointments with his doctor for continuous treatment of his lung cancer. Early on in his tenancy, his case manager had been helping Jakub keep on top of his appointments, though now he manages it all on his own. Jakub continues to be supported by a transitional support case manager based at Southbank and a Launch Housing tenancy and property worker.

“I feel calmer and more relaxed.”

Jakub enjoys the quiet, calm space of his new home in secure transitional housing, where he continues to pursue his love of art. Case managers also successfully applied for material aid to support Jakub’s livelihood and now there’s more artwork on Jakub’s walls than ever before.

Jakub is also quite the cook. He bakes bread and cakes, and regularly makes food for all the residents of the transitional housing unit. We’ve heard that Jakub’s soup is very popular.

Holistic support with immigration, legal and community organisations

At the same time as finding housing for Jakub, his support team also worked closely with other services including immigration and legal services.

Through mid and late 2023 there was a lot of engagement between Jakub, case management staff and refugee and immigration services which resulted in Jakub being granted a Status Resolution Support Service payment (SSRS) while he’s waiting for the outcome of a requested protection visa.

Another win for Jakub was getting his first Australian photo ID. Jakub acquired photo ID with the help of a referral to Life Without Barriers which was a significant moment for Jakub in the context of his status as a refugee.

Jakub also engaged with legal services to help him with his employment underpayment claim, which is currently still ongoing.

What’s next for Jakub?

Now, Jakub is happy managing his health on his own. He manages his own appointments and finances and continues connecting with other residents through his regular cooking events.

“At the moment, I don’t need any help”, Jakub said when asked how the case management team can help. Still, Launch Housing case managers are around if he needs, and even give him flowers on his birthday.

Jakub and his case management team continue to work towards his goal of securing long-term housing.