Saeed’s Story
After receiving refugee status and losing his Home Office accommodation, Saeed found himself in insecure accommodation and sofa surfing. Through First Choice Housing he has been able to access stable and supported accomodation.
Saeed’s name has been changed to protect his identity
Date published: 06/08/2026
Before Saeed came to First Choice Housing
Saeed left Iran to seek asylum in the UK in 2021. After receiving his refugee status in 2024 and leaving Home Office accommodation, Saeed spent 9 months sofa surfing or rough sleeping until he was referred to First Choice Housing.
Saeed explained that he was worried about his future and had nobody to help him with this situation. His first impression of First Choice Housing was that it “made [him] feel positive and the process was clear and good.”
As with each of our clients, Saeed was offered accommodation and paired with a named support worker.
When we spoke to him 7 months into his time with First Choice Housing he said:
“Life feels better, I now have people supporting me, which I didn’t have before. The support I receive from my Support worker takes away my worries. When I receive emails from Housing Benefits and Universal Credit, I don’t have to worry as I know I have someone to help me.”
Saeed has now found part time employment in a supermarket, still studying English and has a good group of friends, one of which is supporting Saeed’s end goal to become a Barber.
Saeed regularly attends his support meetings with his support worker, and he is very happy with his life.
