From Homeless to Business Owner: A Journey of Resilience

One individual has shared the remarkable journey of transitioning from residing in a homeless shelter to establishing and running a thriving business.

At the age of 29, Jess Normanton faced the stark reality of homelessness at 16, devoid of financial resources or parental guidance.

Jessica was left homeless at the age of 16Photo byCaters

Fostered, she turned life around, now pursuing dream of owning successful business.

She said: "Came to work, thought, love my job, love my life."

If I could go back, I'd reassure 16-year-old Jess in the shelter that she'll be okay.I would wrap my arms around 16-year-old Jess in the shelter, look into her eyes, and assure her that despite the darkness surrounding her, there is light ahead.

As a teenager, Jessica became homeless due to circumstances out of her control, with no clothes, food or roof over her head.

Before, she lived in an unsafe environment, sitting in darkness with only a candle for light.

However, when Jessica was privately fostered, things started to change for her as she decided to take the risk and go after her dreams.

She now owns a thriving Brazilian waxing shop, finding great success in the business.

Jessica said: “The first house I ever lived on my own at 16 years old, I had no floor, no bed, I had nothing in this house.

Neighbor saw my bare concrete floor, donated carpet tiles. Their kindness made my home more comfortable and inviting.

She turned her life around after she was fosteredPhoto byCaters

Sharing advice to others, she said: “If you want to do something but you’re a bit too scared, and it’s a bit of a risk and a bit scary for you to put yourself in that environment, just do it.

"Take the risk and you'll be glad you did. You'll look back and feel proud of your decision."

“I have gone from being homeless to now running a business that I love.

“I love my job. I never get up and think, I’ve got to go to work and I’m not even just saying that, I genuinely do.

What to do if you're made homeless

In England, your council must help if you’re legally homeless or will become homeless within the next 8 weeks.

You may be legally homeless if:

• you’ve no legal right to live in accommodation anywhere in the world
• you cannot get into your home, for example your landlord has locked you out
• it’s not reasonable to stay in your home, for example you’re at risk of violence or abuse
• you’re forced to live apart from your family or people you normally live with because there’s no suitable accommodation for you
• you’re living in very poor conditions such as overcrowding

Council support includes advice, emergency housing, finding housing, and help to stay in your home.

Contact Shelter for housing advice, Citizen Legal Advice for legal aid, or your local council for assistance.

“I’m so grateful for everybody that supports me and for all the clients that walk through that door.

Within me resides a previous version of myself, one that I fondly refer to as the old Jess. Each day, she expresses gratitude for the life that I am living presently.