Posted: October 6, 2026
The Move-On and Prevention Service (MAPS) is a new project building on the success of the previous Winter Pressures Fund pilot. Delivered by Good Shepherd in partnership with the City of Wolverhampton Council, the service supports people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness into the private rented sector (PRS) accommodation and other long-term housing options.
One of the people supported through the project is Neil. After a relationship breakdown Neil found himself homeless.
“Me and my wife split up about three years ago and we just co-parent for the children. When the relationship broke down. I was on the streets, living in bus shelters. I was like staying here, there everywhere, I didn’t have anywhere to stay.”
After struggling to find suitable accommodation, Neil eventually moved into supported accommodation in Birmingham. However, being away from his children left him feeling isolated and his mental health started to decline.
“After finding a couple of places that had not been good, I found a place in Birmingham, but I was isolated over there and I was too far away from my children.
“At the same time my mental health was spiralling out of control because I didn’t know what to do. I was stuck in a shared house. I was just stuck in a box that I couldn’t get out.”
“And then I heard about Good Shepherd and followed them up, spoke to Tina, and that changed my life for the better.”
“I was bidding with Midland Hart, but I was getting nowhere with them, and I had trouble with deposits, and then the Good Shepherd helped me.”
Tina, Senior Keyworker at the Good Shepherd explained:
“Neil self-referred to Good Shepherd, so I arranged an appointment and completed an assessment with him. We were able to support him through the Move-On and Prevention Service.
“Not long after meeting Neil, a private landlord we work with contacted me about a property. It was in the perfect area for him and meant he could be closer to his children. We were able to help him move into the flat within a week, and supported with his rent deposit.”
The move has had a significant impact on Neil’s life, allowing him to rebuild his independence while being actively involved in his children’s lives.
“It’s changed my life for the better. I’m just really happy. I’ve got a flat now, my own space and stuff, my own kitchen, my own bathroom, and my children can visit now. They’re only a 20 minute walk away, I can do the school run.”
Neil has now been living in his own flat for just over a month. His mental health has improved significantly, and with support, he is looking forward to returning to employment and building a positive future for himself and his family.