A MUM of two who used to drink two litres of vodka a day has tackled her alcohol issues head-on - and transformed her life for the better.

When Lissi Roberts’s relationship broke down 12 months ago she was left without a home and feared she may spend a night on the streets.

The 45-year-old was born in London and moved to Barrow last year to be with her ex-partner.

However, when the relationship ended and Lissi was forced out the home, the mum-of-two had nowhere else to turn.

In desperation Lissi contacted the Furness Homeless Support Group (FHSG) in Barrow who were able to provide emergency accommodation.

The service has a strict zero policy towards drugs and alcohol so Lissi vowed to stop drinking and tackle her weed habit head-on before entering the housing.

“At that point I was smoking a bag of weed a day and drinking two litres of vodka every day,” Lissi said.

“If it wasn’t for the support group, I don’t think I’d be here today.”

Lissi began drinking and experimenting with drugs as a teenager, using crack cocaine and heroin at the age of 19.

Before engaging with the support group her health was deteriorating due to excessive alcohol use.

“When I was drinking two litres of vodka a day, my health was really deteriorating,” said Lissi.

“I put on lots of weight and it affected my relationships. Drink made me lost all contact with my family who I now have back in my life.

“I never thought I would get to this point. I used to wake up every morning and have a glass of vodka, now it’s a cup of coffee.”

11 months after first engaging with Furness Homeless Support Group, Lissi now lives in one of the service’s dispersed properties but still has access to 24/7 support.

She said: “I feel proud of myself. I’ve moved into my own house and do all the cooking and cleaning.

“I really think I would still be on the alcohol if it wasn’t for their support. I used to wake up and drink and now I don’t think about it.

“I wake up in the mornxing and feel proud of who I am. 

“I would say to anyone struggling, contact FHSG, engage with the staff, they’re all lovely. If I can do it, then anyone can.”

Hayley Wooldridge, a support worker at Furness Homeless Support group, commended Lissi’s hard work and determination to turn her life around.

“When we told Lissi there was no drugs or alcohol allowed on the premises, she said she wanted to change and she’s stuck to her word,” said Hayley.

“We provide support for her here 24/7 and work with Lissi to help her achieve her goals.

“She’s been really consistent and embraced all the support in the area like: CADAS, Women’s Community Matters and Mind to enable her to move on.

“We’ve really seen Lissi’s confidence and self-worth increase.”

FHSG’s warm hub is open every Tuesday from 11am until 1pm. If you need support with housing or housing related issues, contact the team on 01229 821134.