As a child Peter (not his real name) went to boarding school at Blue Coat Chambers. His family wanted him to study law and become a barrister but Peter had other plans. He gained a Master of Arts degree and his work took him all over the world decorating buildings - from lavish palaces to modest mansions.
Peter travelled the world for almost 30 years but when he opened a business in Russia he lost his fortune. He retreated to Holland - and lost what he had left when the banks collapsed. He returned to England homeless and destitute. In 2015 he shared his story.
Tears fell most of the time
“I felt lost and ashamed. Depression kicked in and tears fell most of the time. I then began to drink heavily, which quickly developed into an addiction. I used to call at a friend’s during the day, he eventually had a word with his housing officer who assisted me in getting my flat; and applying for [benefits]. I can recall merely surviving but did not live during this time.
“My housing officer referred me to The Whitechapel Centre. Andy came to see me - and from there on my life evolved. I began to live again. I was referred to social services and occupational therapy, and to a detox centre where I addressed my issues with alcohol.
“The Whitechapel Centre has enabled me to live again, save a bit of money and decorate my apartment using an artist to interpret my own personal vision. My home is now my Parisian palace.
“Please just realise how devastating it is to lose everything; it can and does happen to anyone. Don’t disregard a person’s identity due to their current destitution; it only makes them feel much worse than they already do.”
Peter's 'Parisian-style' home
