Stable Housing, Meaningful Work: Paul’s Story
Arriving back in Melbourne with nothing but a car full of belongings and a determination to start again, Paul drew on his teaching skills, his lived experience, and a deep belief in the power of connection to rebuild his life. He didn’t just seek support, he created it.
From running writing groups in his housing community to now working at his local hospital as a Lived Experience Worker, Paul has spent years standing alongside others during their darkest hours. His Unison home at Gertrude Street in Fitzroy has been the foundation for it all - a place of safety, purpose, and belonging that has allowed him not only to recover, but to lead, support, and inspire.
Beginning again
After years of living in South Australia and volunteering at a mental health center, Paul returned to Melbourne in 1999 ready to rebuild his life. With only his mother nearby and no wider support network, the transition was difficult.
His first Melbourne rental was expensive and poorly maintained. Unsure of his options, Paul began looking into community housing. That’s when he connected with Yarra Space, now Unison, and moved into Osborne House in Fitzroy. At Osborne House, Paul found more than just a roof over his head, he found community.
“If you saw someone who’d just used the washing machine, they’d stop and have a chat,” he recalls.
Using his teaching background, Paul started a writing group for residents. In partnership with Adult Education, the group brought in teachers and a dietitian, and over time, it grew. Paul also donated many of his own books to help build a library for the building. In recognition of his efforts, he received a Frances Pennington Award in 2015 - the certificate is proudly framed in his apartment.
A turning point
After several years, Paul moved into a more accessible Unison apartment at Gertrude Street, Fitzroy. The change offered him greater independence and comfort, but most importantly, stability. “When I came back to Melbourne, it was really hard. I thought about going back to Adelaide, but my friends had moved on, my brothers were interstate, and my dad had passed away." His mum being in Melbourne helped, and having somewhere stable to live made a huge difference.
“I was so relieved to have somewhere I could afford and call my home. So, this isn’t just a unit, it’s my home,” Paul reflects.
Becoming a Lived Experience Worker
Once a patient at a local hospital, Paul now works there as a Lived Experience Worker; supporting others through mental health challenges with empathy and understanding drawn from his own journey.
“People remember me from when I was on the ward. They come back, see me wearing a badge, and it gives them hope. That pretty much says it all.”
Several years after retiring from teaching and getting well in 2017, Paul started working in the role. He brings both professional skills and lived experience to one-on-one and group sessions. “I wanted to give back to the hospital that looked after me.” Though the work can be emotionally demanding, Paul sees it as his calling. “It’s not just having a coffee, it’s hard. I’m helping people at their lowest points.”
Recently promoted, Paul feels supported and safe being open about his mental health at work - something he doesn’t always feel outside the workplace. “There’s still stigma out there,” he says. After a long day, he returns to the quiet of his Unison apartment, a space that keeps him grounded.
“If I went back to teaching, I could afford a bigger place, but that’s not what I want. I’m doing work that matters.”
Life at home
Paul’s apartment reflects his passions and memories. His walls are lined with books from his time as an English and History Teacher, photos of family and friends, and a collection of clocks.
He doesn’t consider himself much of a cook, but when guests come over, he puts on a spread – a favourite is salmon steaks with green salad. He enjoys walks in the local gardens, especially in autumn, and is a keen op-shopper. On our visit, he proudly pointed out his $5 woollen jumper from Rivers.
Over the years, Paul has built a great relationship with his Place Manager, Jen Li, who he describes as responsive and supportive. He’s also had good experiences with Unison’s Maintenance Team, who recently fixed his heater and replaced his rangehood.
Paul’s message for other renters
Despite leading a full life, Paul still has challenging days. Balancing work and managing mental health in a busy world isn’t easy. But he focuses on the positives: “I’m really grateful to have this little place.”
Paul's mantra is to take things “one day at a time.” It helps him keep tough situations in perspective. For others experiencing housing insecurity, his advice is clear: “Reach out and engage with services. I know the housing situation now is very different from when I accessed it, but there is still community housing out there.”
Paul understands how discouraging it can be, but reminds us:
“Even if you hit stumbling blocks, keep at it. You might get a useful bit of information that helps with your next step. Be your own advocate, and be persistent.”
To read more Unison renter stories, visit our blog.
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