Episode 3

This is a special podcast for Homelessness Week 2026 focusing on the experiences of two older people.

Firstly, Lillian has rented her private rental housing for 18 years. Whilst living with great dignity and creativity, her home is hot in summer and cold in winter, with minimal appliances and amenities. Yet asking for repairs or improvements is fraught with the fear of the landlord increasing her rent or serving her an eviction notice. Lillian is haunted by the fear of what she would do if she were made homeless. Lillian has great insights into what governments need to do to address her needs and for all older people.

Len is 76 years old and he tells a harrowing story of losing his job and then one day handing in his private rental keys to his real estate agent because he couldn’t afford the rent any longer. He was then faced with life on the streets and sleeping rough. He talks about the strategies he used to survive and the sometimes-supportive sub-culture that exists amongst the homeless. His story is one of vulnerability and fear but also finding companionship amongst fellow rough sleepers.

Perhaps most importantly of all Len talks about how he eventually found his way out of homelessness where he was not only successful in accessing social housing but he now spends much of his time supporting homeless people through a highly successful arts project.