A BUSINESSMAN whose firm turned over more than £1million for 17 consecutive years found himself sofa surfing and facing homelessness after a series of devastating blows. 

Andrew Blythe, 55, eventually turned to Southend homeless charity Harp for help, admitting he “would be dead”, if it wasn’t for the support he received. 

His high-flying business employed more than 200 people, but after losing a major business contract, Andrew’s life began to spiral out of control. 

Andrew said: “First, my mother had a stroke that left her paralysed. Then, my best friend and colleague committed suicide. 

“My health began to deteriorate, and I had to spend a lot of time at the doctors with liver and heart problems. 

“And then, my wife was diagnosed with cancer - I think that was the final straw.”

Andrew went to his caravan in Southend to take a break from it all and never went back to work again. 

The bills and debts came rolling in, until finally Andrew was forced to declare bankruptcy

He had a number of good friends who helped him sofa surf, but eventually the help dried up and he was forced to turn to Harp. 

He added: “I was so scared to come to HARP - I wasn’t sure what to expect, but my Key Worker, Duncan, really helped me. I thought that people would be really judgmental, but everyone at Harp was so selfless and nice.”

Andrew has now settled in and found a passion for gardening. He has started growing herbs and spices that he uses in his kitchen.

He’s currently receiving treatment for depression and is working with Duncan to rebuild relationships affected by his previous decision making.

Andrew added: “If I hadn’t come to Harp, I would be dead.”

“I have now realised how important getting help for depression and mental illness really is. 

“I am the happiest I have been for a really long time. 

“It feels like I can start again. ”

Andrew has shared his story as Harp launches its annual Christmas appeal. 
Harp is encouraging local people to support their Christmas Appeal at www.harpsouthend.org.uk/xmas or by texting the word XMAS to 70450 to donate £10, texts cost £10 plus your standard network charge.