Homeless man who turned his life around ‘highlight of my week’ says MP

MP Steve Barclay described hearing about a man’s journey from being homeless to now managing a homeless project as “the highlight of my week”.

Mr Barclay was in Wisbech at the opening of Jubilee Place, a new project providing six new homes for the homeless.

Wisbech Standard: Official opening of Jubilee Place, Wisbech, providing six micro homes for the homeless. Mr Barclay chats with John HeathornOfficial opening of Jubilee Place, Wisbech, providing six micro homes for the homeless. Mr Barclay chats with John Heathorn (Image: Steve Barclay)

“Twelve years ago, John Heathorn was homeless and, thanks to great work by the Ferry Project, he has since re built his life,” said Mr Barclay.

“He worked through their services from volunteering to employment and finally becoming the manager at Jubilee Place for those who are homeless.

Wisbech Standard: Official opening of Jubilee Place, Wisbech, providing six micro homes for the homeless. John Heathorn (left) with Steve Barclay and Kevin Smith of the Ferry ProjectOfficial opening of Jubilee Place, Wisbech, providing six micro homes for the homeless. John Heathorn (left) with Steve Barclay and Kevin Smith of the Ferry Project (Image: Archant)

“Joining John at the official opening to hear about his journey, and what he has achieved, was the highlight of my week.

“It will make such a difference to those facing hard times to be able to speak to John and get support knowing he understands their issues first hand.

“Thanks to everyone involved in this great scheme.”

Various charities and social enterprises have worked with Fenland Council to provide the houses at Mill Close.

Wisbech Standard: New micro homes are being placed in Wisbech to support the homeless.New micro homes are being placed in Wisbech to support the homeless. (Image: Archant)

The micro homes have been created a charity in workshops at Waterbeach.