Kelly, aged 54, has spent nearly three decades of his life behind bars. However, now, with his own social housing unit in Newcastle, he’s finally finding his footing.
“Having my own place is making a big difference,” Kelly says. “I’m trying to find my feet, and good housing definitely helps.”
As he works on rebuilding his life, Kelly’s loyal companion, his dog Lisa, is by his side. They often enjoy walks in the nearby bushland.
“She’s the best thing that has happened to me. When I get a bit lonely, I talk to Lisa.”
Kelly also finds happiness in art. He is a skilled artist with a preference for painting and sketching with charcoal, something he wants to do more of in the future.
Kelly recently moved into his Home in Place managed unit after struggling to find a suitable home. He is grateful to Home in Place for giving him a second chance.
“It feels good having my own place.”
“I’m trying to care for myself. I keep a routine going and keep my mind occupied.”
He acknowledges the support he’s received from organisations like Samaritans, especially the prison chaplain who worked with Kelly when he was released from prison and helped him secure housing with Home in Place.
Kelly has since paid it forward by mentoring other people transitioning from prison life. His advice to other men is to learn to be patient, something he works on himself.
“You learn every day. You’ve just got to keep trying. I keep my chin up, stick with what I’m doing.”
Kelly actively participates in programs offered by Samaritans, including lifestyle and wellness initiatives. Recently, during Men’s Health Week, he joined other tenants for a Home in Place sponsored visit to The Junto Men’s Hub in Newcastle, for a range of mental and physical wellbeing exercises.
Looking ahead, Kelly has set his sights on regaining his driver’s license.
“Once I have that, I can take Lisa to the beach and do other things.”
