A woman who once disguised herself as rubbish bags while sleeping rough in a Bournemouth supermarket car park is now looking forward to a safe and happy Christmas, thanks to the support of homelessness charity Hope Housing Training & Support Ltd (HTS).

Sarah Cantwell, 55, is among the 2,700 individuals who have been helped off the streets by Hope, which not only provides shelter but also assists its residents with training, employment, and independent living.

Originally from Dorset, Sarah’s early years were spent in care, living in a children’s home from the age of five until she turned 18.
“I lived in a number of rented flats before moving in with my partner, Stuart,” she explained. “When he became ill, I became his full-time carer. But when he passed away, I was left with nothing and nowhere to go. Overnight, I became homeless.”
Alone and without family, Sarah found herself sleeping rough in a shopping centre car park before moving outside a supermarket.
“It was terrifying at first,” she recalled. “I didn’t have a tent, so I would cover my sleeping bag with black bags to blend in and stay hidden. Eventually, I was moved on several times and ended up in a woodland area near a funeral director’s, which oddly gave me some comfort. A fox used to visit me, keeping me company. But deep down, I knew I couldn’t survive like that for long.”

Sarah’s turning point came when she met someone who had been helped by Hope HTS.

“They told me to go there. I had to be tested for alcohol and drugs, but that wasn’t an issue for me as I’ve never struggled with addiction. When I arrived to move in, my support worker asked where my belongings were. I only had the clothes I was wearing, and she was shocked.”

Since moving into Hope accommodation, Sarah has made friends, started volunteering at a shop and café, and even gone on a short holiday—something she never imagined she would have the confidence to do.

“I still prefer my own company, and I think that’s just who I am because of my past,” she said. “But this year, I’ll be celebrating Christmas in the warmth of Hope. I’ll even be cooking a roast dinner for myself and a neighbour. I’m incredibly grateful to have found this place.”

A New Beginning with Hope

Sarah’s support worker, Samantha Hull, highlighted the life-changing work that Hope HTS does every day.

“At Hope, we provide a safe and stable environment for our clients, helping them break away from the uncertainties and negative patterns of their former lives. Some, like Sarah, need a fresh start, while others require support in overcoming addiction or reconnecting with their families. Our team of highly trained support workers and counsellors are here to guide and encourage them every step of the way.”

She added: “Sarah has faced immense challenges throughout her life, yet she remains kind-hearted and eager to help others. Watching her build a home here has been wonderful. Now, we’re working towards securing her own place, where she can fully reintegrate into the community.”

The Spirit of Giving at Christmas

Julie Berti, CEO of Hope HTS, emphasised the importance of their work, particularly during the festive season.

“Sarah’s story is a powerful reminder of how vulnerable any of us could be to homelessness—and how the right support can truly transform lives. Christmas at Hope is a time of togetherness, safety, and joy. We began our celebrations with a Pizza Evening on 10th December, supported by Funky Mouse and DJ James Gordon.”

She also expressed gratitude to the many local businesses that have donated food and toiletries for residents this Christmas, including Vosh, GOTO Events, Tan Shack, Skin Clinic, M.A. Hart, Tesco Riverside Avenue, Tesco Express Wallisdown Road, Ellis Jones, and Ben Keightly Carpet Rolls & Remnants.

“We thank them from the bottom of our hearts for their generosity,” she said.

Support Hope HTS in 2025

To help Hope HTS continue its vital work in the coming year, please visit: www.hopehts.com

Additional Information: Hope HTS was founded 15 years ago by Julie Berti and her late father, David, with the mission of helping people off the streets. Since then, the charity has supported over 2,700 homeless individuals in accessing safe accommodation and rebuilding their lives.

For media inquiries, please contact Debbie Granville at: hello@debbiegranvillepr.co.uk