Former rough sleeper shares her recovery through art

After eight and a half months sleeping rough in Nottingham, Lisa Barlow found a turning point in Framework’s supported accommodation. Now her testimony and poetry are part of an exhibition sharing what recovery can look like.

The 47-year-old told the BBC that the charity helped her rebuild her life. She still receives support and has volunteered with Framework for more than a year, hoping her experience can help others.

Framework’s From Trauma to Hope to Independence exhibition opened at Southwell Minster on 10 October. It brings together art, spoken word and accounts from people who have used its services.

Lisa’s experience is one person’s account, rather than evidence that everyone recovers in the same way. Her continuing support also matters.

The charity helps volunteers take that next step with training and expenses, including help with travel and childcare. For Lisa, receiving support has grown into offering it: she is using her voice to show others that a life beyond homelessness is possible.

Sources

• BBC News — From trauma and addiction to ‘giving back’
• Framework — 25th anniversary exhibition
• Framework — Volunteer with us