For Hasan Mian, the last few years have been defined by a sudden change in circumstances and the difficult reality of homelessness.

Originally from Nottingham, Hasan moved to London in 2016 after coming to the capital to study and build his career. He went on to qualify as a social worker and spent around five years working in the sector, supporting young people and helping others through challenging periods of their lives.

But Hasan’s own life changed quickly after he was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia.

“It was like my life just turned in a moment’s notice,” Hasan said. “I couldn’t understand what was happening.”

The impact was immediate. Hasan’s health affected his ability to work and put strain on his relationship at the time. Soon after, he also lost the home he had been living in.

“I was living in my dad’s flat,” he explained. “My dad then got cancer and had to sell it. I was made homeless.”

For someone who had worked since childhood and had never experienced homelessness before, it was a shock.

“I’ve always worked,” Hasan said. “I did a paper round from the age of seven. I’m quite a proud guy. I’d never been homeless before.”

With London rents unaffordable and his health limiting his options, Hasan turned to the council for support.

A temporary step towards stability

After approaching the council, Hasan was placed in temporary accommodation while a longer-term home was identified.

Although he was grateful to have somewhere to stay during a difficult time, Hasan felt it was not somewhere he felt able to properly settle, particularly while managing his health.

“It was temporary and I understood that,” he commented. “But it didn’t feel like somewhere I could really rest or recover.”

Living in shared accommodation made it hard to establish routine and consistency at a time when stability was crucial.

“I’m grateful the council supported me and helped me move forward,” Hasan added. “The next thing they did was refer me to Local Space, which added me to its waiting list for accommodation.

After around a year in 2024, Hasan received confirmation that a one-bedroom flat had become available in East Ham through Local Space.

“Having my own front door through Local Space was the moment things really started to change,” he said. “I was elated.”

A place to call home

Hasan’s new home is in a modern development in East Ham. Moving in marked a turning point. “It was massive,” he explained. “A huge difference.”

Instead of shared accommodation, Hasan now had his own flat with an open plan living and kitchen area, a separate bathroom and a small balcony. The property was newly built and fully equipped with integrated appliances.

“It was brand new when I moved in,” he said. “A lovely modern flat. Whoever designed it was quite creative. It has everything I need.”

Most importantly, it gave him privacy and peace.

Support when it matters most

For Hasan, the quality of the accommodation has been matched by the support he has received.

“My whole experience has been seamless,” he commented. “With Local Space, they do what they say they’re going to do.”

He recalls occasions when building repairs were needed and residents were temporarily asked to leave while work was carried out.

“Local Space explained what was happening and made sure we were supported,” Hasan said. “They gave me some funds towards alternative accommodation because we couldn’t stay there.”

For Hasan, that responsiveness made a strong impression.

Space to breathe and look ahead

Since moving into his Local Space home, Hasan says the biggest change has been the sense of calm and security it has brought.

“It’s helped my nervous system reset,” he explained. “Just to settle and be somewhere I feel safe. I can rest and relax. This stability has had a positive effect on my mental wellbeing.”

Hasan has also found a sense of belonging in his local area, building relationships with neighbours and local shopkeepers.

“Neighbours are really friendly,” he said. “You say good morning, have a quick chat. It feels like you’re part of something.”

While his health remains his priority, Hasan says having a settled home has given him space to think about the future: “It’s given me somewhere I can just breathe and think about my next steps.”

He hopes to continue focusing on improving his health, return to dating and potentially explore a new career direction alongside maintaining his social work registration.

A turning point

For Hasan, the move from temporary accommodation into a settled home has been life changing. It has provided stability, dignity and the foundation to rebuild.

“It’s been the best service I’ve had,” he said. “And I’m not saying that because I’m talking to you. I’m saying that genuinely.”