Gulf War veteran goes from being homeless to hosting art exhibitions within two years. » Housing » 24dash.com

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Gulf War veteran goes from being homeless to hosting art exhibitions within two years.

In 2007 Andrew Charles was penniless, living rough in Cumbrian woodland, suffering from depression and battling with alcohol and drug problems.

Just two years on Andrew, a former member of the Parachute Regiment, is hosting his third art exhibition displaying his own work and continuing his inspiring recovery.

The 51-year-old from  Kendal, credits his love of all things artistic and the social support organisation Stonham for helping him turn his life around.

He said: “Through my art I have found a voice to express myself and found an identity I have been searching for all of my life. I had two stints in the military including three months in Iraq during the Gulf War. When I left the army I was disillusioned and depressed and my drink and drug abuse spiralled.

“My life has been a very varied journey. I have lived in many different countries and have had all sorts of jobs. The positive turning point for me was being introduced to Stonham and its services. With its help I began a BTEC course in art and design at Kendal College in September 2007 and that was one of the best decisions I have ever made.”

Andrew’s Definitive exhibition is taking place at the Hawkshead Brewery, in Staveley, from February 15 to March 15.

“I’ll be displaying 15 pieces of my work, many of them are landscapes of the Cumbrian countryside. My work focuses on colour abstractions of our environment and is open to the viewer’s own interpretation.”

Andrew lives at the Stonham Riverview project and has shown his gratitude to the organisation by donating pieces of his art work for it to sell to raise funds. His paintings also brighten up the centre’s communal areas. He is also a spokesperson for the Royal British Legion and has recently been nominated for an adult learner’s award.

He added: “Stonham and the Royal British Legion have both been incredibly supportive and helped change my life for the better.”

The Stonham Riverview project provides a safe and supportive home for up to 12 people with a diverse range of needs. Its clients come from a wide background and include people who have been homeless and who have suffered or are suffering from mental illness.

ENDS

Notes for editors
Andrew is available for interviews. Please contact Jerry Lyons to aarange this on 020 8582 2287.
• Stonham is England’s largest provider of specialist housing, care and support. We have 545 projects across England helping over 15,000 people each year. We specialise in offering housing, care and support to vulnerable and/or socially excluded people including single homeless people, young people leaving care, vulnerable young women, people escaping domestic violence, people with disabilities and people with mental health problems.
• Stonham is a division of Home Group Limited, a Registered Social Landlord (Housing Corporation Register No: L3076) and charity registered under the Industrial & Provident Societies Act 1965 (Register No: 22981R).
• For further information about the Stonham Riverview Project, please contact:
o Jerry Lyons, Stonham PR Officer (Direct line: 020 8582 2287 or 07595 651 332)
• Website: www.stonham.org.uk