Homelessness in the spotlight
she plans to go on to study psychology. She said working alongside the team at Behind the Label has enabled her to build her self-esteem. “It’s given me a said Jules. lot more confidence,”
“It’s been hard at times – it’s been hard to open up.”
Explaining why she thinks it’s important for people listen to the tales in the production, she added: “To open their eyes as to what’s really going on.
“More people should talk to homeless people and hear their stories. Find out the reason why they’re there.”
In a heartbreaking turn of events Liam Wallis, 31, found himself on the streets after suffering with mental health issues.
As little as two years ago Liam was managing a pub in Cowbridge.
He was able to live above the business as part of the work arrangement but just over two years ago he lost it all when he started to isolate himself from the people around him.
“I started to suffer from depression and anxiety,” Liam explained. “I wasn’t engaging with people and I wouldn’t want to be around people.
“It came to a point where I didn’t want to speak to anyone. I started drinking and became an alcoholic.”
Liam added: “I was walking the streets for six to eight months. I was hiding behind lampposts just so people wouldn’t see me.”
But Liam has been in accommodation in Barry for the past two months.
He explained it took a while for him to be given the help he needed but he was eventually put in a hotel before being granted a place in the Vale of Glamorgan.
Liam said: “I can wake up and have a shower now. I used to walk seven miles to have a shower and then walk seven miles back.
“The house I’m in is not the best but I have a kitchen and I can cook and have a shower.”
He’s also feeling positive about being in the show which has enabled him to meet a lot of new people and share his experiences.
“It’s a bit nerve-wracking,” he added. “But we all have stories. Some people tell their stories and they are a lot worse than mine.
“It’s just good being around people. We have all gone through tough times and it’s nice to speak to people who understand.”
■ Behind the Label is at the Weston Studio, Wales Millennium Centre, tonight at 8pm. Tickets are £12 from wmc.org.uk or 029 2063 6464.