Nigel doesn't own quite as many tools as he used to. But steadily, he continues to rebuild his kit. Right now, he's using his tools to methodically repair his neighbour's chair.

 

Years ago, he used them to build his dream family home. 
Nigel, his wife, and his sons lived in this dream home for 10 years. When he wasn't working as a Corrections Officer, he worked on his house. From the stairs to the pergola, to the wardrobes, the laundry and the kitchen, there wasn't one part of the house that Nigel didn't personally construct. Things seemed perfect.

 

But it was taken away in an instant, as Nigel and his family stood on their front lawn, watching a fire reduce their beloved home to ashes. This tremendous loss impacted his finances, his health and ultimately, his marriage. 

Never having any experience with community services, Nigel did what many people do; he managed as best he could on his own. He couch-surfed for a few months before a period of stress sent him to hospital. It was only once he was hospitalised that he was connected to services that could support him. 

The first place he stayed was a refuge for a group of men. Nigel liked it there; rent was affordable, and the people were friendly. But after five years it closed, and everyone had to leave. He briefly rented a place, but the person he rented with struggled with addiction.

 

Eventually, Nigel ended up sleeping rough in the Perth CBD, and soon after began visiting Uniting WA's Tranby Engagement Hub. 

Even on the streets, Nigel was a handy man. He'd show you where to get support and show you the tricks of the trade. While others found their sleeping bags getting wet overnight, Nigel's would be dry with his multilayered approach of plastic sheet, rubber mat, and two blankets. This pragmatism led to him befriending someone who was newly sleeping rough and struggling with alcohol addiction. Nigel took him under his wing and helped him remain sober. 

Eventually, Nigel was offered a place in transitional housing, where he lived for several months. In the meantime, his support workers helped him apply for public housing. Recently, he moved into a new unit with his beloved dog, Molly. 

 

Since living in his new home, Nigel has reacquainted himself with his culinary skills. It's not exactly a passion, but it is something he enjoys doing. He can cook Indian, Mexican, even a little bit of Chinese. But nothing will compare to his home-grown Yorkshire recipes, particularly his Yorkshire puddings.  

He now enjoys taking on small handyman tasks and often attends corporate volunteering sessions at Tranby to share his story and raise awareness. Brick by brick, or rather - tool by tool, Nigel is rebuilding his life – and while it might look a little different now, he still walks around wearing a smile, finding joy in the little things.