🌧️💔 Meet Michael Atkinson, a 63-year-old from St Helens who’s found himself in a tough spot. Since June, Michael’s home has been his Vauxhall Meriva—yes, a car. His daily routine includes washing up at motorway services and worrying about what he can eat. The images Colin Lane of Liverpool Echo captured show how cramped his life is, trying to make the back seat of an 8-year-old car work as a makeshift bedroom. (Image credit: Colin Lane/Liverpool Echo)
Michael’s dilemma? He’s going through a divorce that keeps him out of the family home, yet holding a mortgage means the council says ‘no’ to helping him with housing. He’s ineligible for social housing under current policies.
As he cares for his ailing parents, who need their space for medical gear, he can’t crash at theirs. His heart condition makes living in his car more than just a hassle—it’s genuinely affecting his health.
Living in a car comes with its own unique challenges, including not having a reliable spot for a hot meal or even knowing where the next loo might be. Michael’s days involve eating cold supermarket meals and the rare treat of a ÂŁ6 carvery—luxuries he can scarcely afford amid the soaring cost of living. 🍛
Despite his circumstances, Michael tries to stay optimistic, confronting it all as a mighty challenge. But let’s face facts; it’s a gruelling test that’s truly worn him down, leaving him saying, “I’m really struggling.”
Meanwhile, St Helens Council says they’re offering guidance but states they haven’t advised him to live in his car. So what’s next for Michael?
Here’s hoping for a more sustainable resolution for him—and soon. Keep an eye out for more on this developing story. #Homelessness #CostOfLivingCrisis #SupportLocal