When living at his Mum’s place was no longer an option, Jordan knew he needed to find somewhere for him and his six-month-old Sheffield cross, Paddy to live.

“My girlfriend at the time helped me access Safe Space where I could be with Paddy, before I was offered a spot at Bethlehem House,” Jordan said.

Bethlehem House in Harrington Street can assist up to 50 men who are facing homelessness. Three kennels on site also allow residents to keep their pets with them during their stay.

Pets are central to their owners’ health and wellbeing and some people facing homelessness, will sleep rough to avoid giving up their pets, something that Paddy knows all too well.

“It’s so challenging being in a position like I was, I was thinking of myself, but I also had Paddy to think about,” he said.

Bethlehem House has been a temporary place to stay while he worked towards getting his own house.

“I’m working odd jobs, starting in the early afternoon, and finishing in the early hours of the morning. It’s something to keep me going until I can find a permanent job,” Jordan said.

“I’ve got my Cert 2 in servicing cars, and I would love to get into the automotive industry.

“The facilities and support have been really good here. I’m looking forward to the next stage of my life and having my own house, Jordan said.

“The kennel that Paddy is in is heated and it’s somewhere for him to stay while I’m at work. I take him for a walk every day and make sure he has everything he needs.”

Dogs that stay at Bethlehem House are required to be up to date with their vaccinations and need to be micro-chipped.

Residents are responsible for looking after their dogs, including purchasing all food and keeping their kennels clean.

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Since interviewing Jordan, he has found a private rental that allows pets, allowing him and Paddy to stay together.