Highlighting how quickly life can be turned upside down, Lee Steeton has spoken candidly about his plight that has left him sleeping in a car alongside his rescue dog, Lara, since November.
Previously working in London, the 55-year-old was successful and in a happy relationship. However, after his marriage broke down and he suffered a stroke that left him unable to work, Lee found himself with nowhere left to turn.
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In the weeks after losing his home, Lee travelled around Norfolk with Lara, determined to put a positive spin on his dire situation.
Since returning to south Essex in November, he has been told it could be a six month wait until a home is found and has been travelling around Southend and Rochford sleeping in his car despite the freezing conditions.
Companion – Lee has been joined throughout his period of homelessness by rescue dog, Lara (Image: Lee Streeton) “Since then, I’ve been living in my car, sleeping mainly in areas around the airport,” he said.
“I’ve slept in my car all through the winter, it’s dropped to minus eight degrees at points and I am surviving off of a camping stove.”
Having worked for IBM for over 20 years, including running the company’s work around the 2012 London Olympics, Lee describes himself as “pretty highly skilled”.
Despite the tough times, he singled out St Vincent’s Centre in Southend for the support they have given him in getting back on his feet.
In addition to using St Vincent’s services, such as free hot meals and housing advice, Lee has also been volunteering with the charity.
Frozen – Lee has survived sub-zero temperatures this winter (Image: Lee Streeton) He says he is still hopeful that he can improve his situation, and emphasised his positive attitude towards life.
“I’m really positive and I know I will get myself out of this situation. I’ve had no real help but I am getting my own plan together,” said Lee.
“I’ve lived in the area for a long time and have a decent knowledge of what areas are abandoned or derelict, so I am able to find decent places to sleep.
“Although I’m trying to save diesel, I will try and come down to the beach a couple of times a week to let the dog have a play, and will just sit in the boot and throw a ball.
Adding: “I’m very lucky to have my car, as I’ve met a lot of guys who are sleeping on the streets, and have been for years.”
” A spokesperson for Rochford Council said: “Lee Streeton has an open case with Rochford Council and the council are looking at ways they can relieve his homelessness, he was offered B&B before Christmas however he said he could not go into the B&B without the dog and there are unfortunately no B&B’s that we use that accept dogs.”
“He does have support from other agencies, and we are working with him to look at the housing options available to help him.”