Homeless patient finds accommodation thanks to UHNM Armed Forces Team

Robert Conlin in his accommodation

A homeless army veteran has moved into his own accommodation thanks to specialist support from University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM).

Robert Conlin, who served in the army for 11 years, found himself homeless before receiving treatment at the Royal Stoke University Hospital.   

Now the 69-year-old has a self-contained apartment at the Macari Centre in Stoke-on-Trent after being referred to UHNM’s armed forces team. 

Robert was able to secure the temporary accommodation thanks to the support of Lucy Woodward, Defence Medical Welfare Service Officer.  

Lucy said: “I was able to secure a self-contained apartment for Robert at the sought-after Macari Centre, but given his previous homelessness, he lacked essential items for the apartment such as bedding and crockery. Fortunately, I was able to find these basic items thanks to generous local donations on social media.   

“As part of the support I provide to veterans through my role, I was also able to help Robert get back on his feet by offering advice on benefits and other third-party support.”

UHNM became the first hospital Trust in Staffordshire to appoint a full-time Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS) Officer in last year to provide specialist inpatient support and help with potentially quicker discharges at Royal Stoke and County hospitals. 

Robert said: "I found the service provided by Lucy brilliant. From start to finish, and even though it is ongoing, I could not ask for more. She has significantly helped me regain stability, and I cannot thank her enough. Her assistance has been invaluable, and her dedication brings tears to my eyes. She has gone above and beyond, and I cannot express my gratitude enough."

David Smith, Transformation Project Manager and Armed Forces Champion at UHNM, said: “We are incredibly proud of the extensive efforts made by Lucy in supporting this veteran. This is just one of many cases that Lucy has supported since taking up her position back in January 2024 and demonstrates the importance and significant impact this role can have on an individual's life.”