A Father & Son's Hope to Return to the UK

Hello, my name is Jack, a 28-year-old single father, and I'm reaching out to the global community for support in a time of personal hardship and hope. In the early days of 2020, just as the world began grappling with the unprecedented challenges of COVID-19, I found myself stranded in Canada, far from our home in the UK.

Initially, it was a situation of waiting it out - hoping for a swift end to the pandemic so my partner and I could return home. But as the months stretched on, the situation grew more complex. My financial resources dwindled, and in 2021, my life changed forever with the birth of my wonderful son, Oscar. Being a father is a joy, but in a foreign land, without a support network, it's also been a challenge of immense proportions. The pandemic not only left us isolated but also impacted our mental health and the stress eventually led to a painful separation in the last month with my partner, with whom I had been together for seven years. This separation has deeply affected me, leaving me feeling shattered and alone.

Visa Challenges:

After Oscar's birth, I invested a significant amount of our funds in an attempt to secure visas and create a stable life in Canada and we managed for a year and a half. However, our efforts were met with challenges, and our application for visa renewal was denied. Since then, We have been desperately trying to return to the UK, but with depleted funds and no place to return to, our situation has become increasingly difficult.

Current Situation:

Oscar and I are currently out of status in Canada, which means we have no access to support systems or a clear future here. We have been trying to leave for a long time, but financial constraints and the lack of a place to return to in the UK have made it nearly impossible.

The Impact on Oscar:

Oscar has lost so much from this - the chance of a normal life, the presence of both parents together, and the stability every child deserves. As a father, I watch him grow and wish to offer him a better life, one that's not shadowed by the struggles and uncertainties we're currently facing.

Personal Struggles:

My own mental health is declining. I suffer from bipolar disorder and PTSD, conditions I've managed for the last eight years. But with the separation, the added stress of trying to return to the UK, and being alone here with no one to talk to, I'm extremely overwhelmed. There are days I feel useless as a father, barely holding on, but I am determined to create a better future for Oscar. This campaign is a last grasp at trying to make my son's life better. I work 10 hours a day and pay for daycare and our rent, but it's a balancing act financially. We have no extra funds or family support in this manner. I don't have much family support or friends as I've always worked hard to provide and make things work. Every day is a struggle to keep things afloat, and the pressure is immense.

Use of Funds:

Your support will directly fund our journey home – covering travel expenses, temporary accommodation upon arrival, and basic necessities as I re-establish our lives and seek employment. Every donation, no matter how small, brings us a step closer to a stable, secure, and hopeful future.

Gratitude and Sharing:

Oscar and I are deeply grateful for any support you can provide. Whether it's a donation or sharing our story with others, every gesture makes a difference. Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for considering being a part of our journey home.

My Promise:

I promise to keep all supporters updated on our progress. Your support means the world to us, and I want to ensure you're informed about how your generosity is helping change our lives.

Cost Breakdown for $6,000 Goal

This breakdown is intended to provide transparency on how the funds raised will be utilized. The goal is set at $6,000 to cover the essential expenses associated with relocating back to the UK and get situated until my sons UK citizenship is finalized he's not entitled to much so this is a rough outline under these unforeseen circumstances.

Flights to the UK:

Estimate for Two Tickets (Canada to UK): $2,000 (last check cheapest was $1,874)

This covers the cost of one-way flights for both myself and my son, Oscar.

Temporary Accommodation in the UK:

First Month's Rent and Deposit: $1,500

This amount will cover the initial housing costs, including deposit and first month’s rent.

Living Expenses:

First Month's Living Expenses (Groceries, Utilities, Transportation): $1000

To cover the basic needs as we settle in, including groceries, utilities, and transportation.

Childcare:

Initial Childcare Expenses: $500

To cover the initial childcare costs in the UK while I get a job or during the initial phases of employment.

Emergency Fund:

Contingency and Unexpected Costs: $1000

A buffer for any unforeseen expenses during the transition.