A FORMER Greenock soldier who ended up homeless has helped hundreds of people like himself after setting up a groundbreaking charity in Inverclyde.

Billy Hanley was left desolate after suffering a debilitating stroke which left him disabled down one side of his body.

The former Argyll and Sutherland Highlander then found himself in the Inverclyde Homeless Centre after his marriage broke down.

But he turned his own tragedy into triumph by setting up the Inverclyde Homeless Forum to offer hope to vulnerable people.

Every Friday up to 40 people turn up for a three course meal at the charity, with organisers also arranging a host of services such as opticians, financial support advisors and the Samaritans on hand.

Now the forum is all set to expand as the need for the service continues to escalate.

Billy, 60, who now lives in sheltered housing accommodation, said: “I am living proof that anybody can end up homeless.

“I had been in the army for 12 years serving in Cyprus, Germany and Ireland and was 48 years old and working as a taxi driver when I had a stroke that left me disabled down the one side.

“My marriage broke down and I had nowhere to go.”

It was during this dark time in his life Billy realised how little help and support there was for people who fall on hard times.

He added: “It was a terrible experience and I realised how badly people are treated. I was so determined to get myself out of the situation.” 

Along with the help of other homeless people and concerned health professionals, Billy set up the Inverclyde Homeless Forum.

They started serving meals in the St Mary’s Church hall and the project has gone from strength to strength ever since.

The forum now has an army of volunteers and thanks to a £2,500 grant from the Co-op, voted for by customers, they are opening up one more day a week.

Vice-chair Carol Bjonness said: “I think we are needed now more than ever. There are people in Inverclyde really suffering in recent years.

“It is overwhelming the impact the charity has had on people and it is just amazing to get the support from the public that we do.”

The forum will now be open every Monday from 9.30 to 2pm, as well as Fridays.