From hidden homelessness to stability at Elizabeth Street Common Ground.
Michael’s story shows how safe, permanent housing with wraparound support can restore dignity, health and hope.
Homelessness can happen to anyone
Michael (not his real name) found that, as he got older, the barriers to housing and employment compounded. Once able to easily share rentals in his twenties, he later found himself excluded from the market. And despite steady work in retail, customer service and admin roles, opportunities dwindled.
‘It’s pretty surprising who can be homeless.’
He reflects that homelessness ‘can happen to anyone’, noting that many of the older men he met had once been employed but now also rely on soup vans.
Michael spent four years staying in squats, deliberately avoiding rooming houses which he describes as ‘hell holes’ and ‘health hazards’. He kept to himself, never revealing his locations, and respected the properties he stayed in.
Long-term housing and support at Elizabeth Street Common Ground
In 2013, Michael was offered an interview at Elizabeth Street Common Ground (ESCG) and moved into a self-contained unit with a balcony, bathroom and kitchen.
Elizabeth Street Common Ground (ESCG) is a permanent supportive housing that provides 24-hour on-going support to improve residents’ health, wellbeing and lifestyle.
For the first time in years, Michael had a safe and stable home.
‘The staff have been absolutely superb.’
The wraparound model at Elizabeth Street Common Ground provided more than housing. On-site staff, case workers and nurses offered regular check-ins, and connected Michael to health services and community activities. This environment allowed Michael to build trust, improve his health and feel supported without pressure.
The impact is life changing
Michael describes himself as ‘very grateful’ for the stability and support he has at Elizabeth Street Common Ground. He quit smoking during COVID, saved enough money to plan trips, and is now looking for work that gives him a sense of purpose.
Now safely housed, Michael reflects on the systemic barriers, including unaffordable housing and a lack of political will to fix the housing crisis. While he praises the vital work of organisations like Launch Housing, he believes change must come from transforming the system.
‘It is the system that is not working.’
