I’ve been in prison but now my mission is to help those struggling like I used to

A Blackpool man who has experienced homelessness and spent time in prison says he is using his life experiences in a bid to help others.

Aaron Heaney, from South Shore, was for many years caught up in a cycle of prison, struggling to cope after release and then returning to prison again.

He says that at various times he struggled with addiction issues and at one low point he even contemplated taking his own life. He had convictions for violence and burglary and couldn’t get straight.

But he says he turned a corner after his mum became seriously ill and homeless and he resolved to try and break the cycle to help her.

Now settled in a rented flat with his partner, in South Shore, he has set up a non-profit community interest company, Aztec Enterprises CIC, and plans to establish a website which will help to link other non-profit community interest groups and charitable organisations together, to further their work.

One of his aims is to help the most vulnerable people in the town who are struggling with issues such as drug addiction, homelessness and domestic violence.

Aaron, a digital creator with 35,000 followers, is active on Facebook, where he posts every day.

The 32 year old, who has been supporting himself by serving burgers,  said: “I have been at rock bottom over the years, as low as it can get. When I was homeless I’d break into empty properties just to stay warm and end up being arrested and sent back to prison.

“I was addicted to Pregabalin, a prescription drug which treats anxiety.

“I had no opportunities to break the cycle because no one wanted to give me a job. Now things are looking up and I have a permanent place to live.

“My aim is to set up a website which will be like the Checkatrade of community interest groups and local charities  and respectable small businesses.

“What I want is to  link up all the ‘do good’ organisations together, reputable people, who do good work, help people and make the world a better place.

“Some people ask me what do I know about drug addiction, homelessness or domestic violence,

“Well, I’ve been there, I saw domestic violence when I was growing up, I’ve been homeless and when I was at my worst I tried walking into the sea.

“I’ve been open and honest about who I am and what I’m trying to do. I’ve already been able to help various people with a few things, people who were at rock bottom.

“With the CIC and the website, I aim to make a real difference, if I can, and work with good people who are already doing brilliant work.”

Aaron is currently looking to set up a network event  to discuss plans for the website and says people can see his progress via his Aztec Enterprises CIC Facebook page.