Former homeless man thanks Oxford Night Shelter for new life
Rob Ilet enjoys safety and freedom after volunteers help him into supported housing
A man who was rough sleeping in Oxford now sits comfortably in extra care housing thanks to volunteers at Oxford Night Shelter.
Rob Ilet explained how his life has been transformed since a conversation at the shelter which set him on a path away from addiction and homelessness.
After years battling alcohol dependency, Rob found himself in a downward spiral that led to financial struggles, social isolation, and eventually life on the streets.
“Just one person said, ‘You need help.’ That was it. One lady said, ‘I know someone who knows someone,’” Rob said. “That’s all it took to turn things around.”
The connection made at the night shelter ultimately led Rob to extra care housing, a service designed to offer older people and those with additional needs the chance to live independently while receiving support when required.
Rob now lives in Abingdon, and the move has given him the peace and stability he needed to reclaim his life.
His days now include walks into town, coffee with friends, time reading by the river and spotting wildlife through his binoculars
A key part of Rob’s journey has also been the relationships he’s formed since moving into extra care housing.
“I’ve got lots of friends in other flats. There’s a real sense of community here,” Rob said.
He credits the carers for their approach, balancing freedom with assistance when required.
“They’re fantastic ‒ they give you space, but they’re always ready to step in when you need them,” Rob added.
Reflecting on his struggles with alcohol, Rob doesn’t shy away from the reality of the damage it caused.
“It ruined everything. You spend all your money and end up drunk somewhere. It’s a slippery slope,” he explained.
“But I feel very grateful to have come out the other side. I don’t think about those things at all now. It’s the furthest thing from my mind.”
Rob also acknowledged those who weren’t able to overcome the damaging effects of life on the streets but said their struggles inspired him to persevere.
“I’ve known people from the night shelter that didn’t make it. I think seeing people go through that and end their lives gives you more fortitude, I suppose ‒ more determination,” he said.
The support Rob received from volunteers at the night shelter and carers in extra care housing has been life-changing, and he is quick to express gratitude.
“There’s just so many people out there who are so kind-hearted and willing to help, and I often meet them in town and go for a coffee and a chat ‒ it’s just marvellous,” Rob said.
“Being here is just extraordinary. The help that’s available out there is lifesaving, and I’ve met a few people who’ve gone through that and managed to come out the other side. We often meet up in town and have a coffee … strange how things work out.”