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Hollie’s been in her home for 17 years and was one of the first to move into her block of flats. Her home is still her safe place, but she wanted more confidence in her day-to-day life and to feel empowered when she’s not at home.
That’s why she attended the free VIVID Plus funded sessions with A.C.T. Self Defence, a self-defence Community Interest Company (CIC) based in Fareham. VIVID Plus is our charitable arm, providing targeted support and investment for our communities.
One of our customer promises is “We’ll support you if needed and adjust as best we can”. Sometimes that means connecting people with one of the many organisations that are there to help when it’s needed. Through VIVID Plus, we support a range of local initiatives focused on helping our customers and communities thrive – like A.C.T.
“The appeal for me to take self-defence was to learn how to protect myself and keep myself safe.”
Hollie told us how the A.C.T. team, including Mike and Louis, helped her.
“They’ve been really helpful and really kind, and they’ve also stayed in contact with me so I can continue on the course.” She also said, “I personally feel like it’s important and more of this kind of thing needs to be easily accessible.”
“It’s given me that access without having to worry about costs other than my travel.”
These sessions go beyond just teaching skills, they’re helping VIVID customers feel more confident and safer.
“I’m kinder to myself, and I’m learning how to feel good about myself and feel empowered.”
What home means to Hollie
Talking about what her home means to her, Hollie said:
“It reflects my own personality; it’s decorated to how I like. I’ve been here for so long, it’s like my own little sanctuary and it’s where I feel safe.”
A home is a place of safety during good times and bad.
“It gives me a space to be able to cry if I want to. I don’t have to answer to anyone I can just be myself and be comfortable here.”
More than homes
Hollie’s experience with us has been about much more than just having a roof over her head. It has given her a place she can truly call home, somewhere she feels comfortable, settled and able to make her own.
Through VIVID Plus, she has also felt more confident and empowered. VIVID Plus is all about going beyond the home, offering support with the everyday things that really matter, from building skills and confidence to helping people feel more connected to their community.
Hollie told us: “I feel like I’ve had things provided to me that perhaps other landlords wouldn’t.”
Her story shows the difference VIVID Plus can make. Our customer promises are all about making sure every customer feels we provide them with a good place to live, not just in terms of your home, but in how supported and valued you feel every day.
I feel like I’ve had things provided to me that perhaps other landlords wouldn’t.