Rough sleeper support

  The issues faced by those who are chronically homeless can be far reaching and complex. During 2017/18, 46%  rough sleepers in London were documented to have had physical health needs. They also have more mental health problems compared to the general public. We have designed different kits that target specific needs, so that we can provide support where it is most needed.

What's included: Hand sanitizer, latex gloves, tissues, lip balm, throat sweets, bottle of water, first aid bandage, plasters,

Why:  Homeless people are highly susceptible to the Covid-19 virus. Unlike the average person, they cannot self isolate, and they do not always have the means to keep themselves clean. They are are in direct contact with the public every single day. Homeless people often have other underlying health concerns and it is vital that they get the support they need at this time. 

 What’s included: All weather backpack, hat, gloves, first aid kit, hand lotion, wet wipes, fleece, refillable bottle of water, nail clippers

Why: These simple items can improve the day to day quality of life for rough sleepers.

 Why: These simple items can improve the day to day quality of life for rough sleepers. 

What’s included: 2 pairs of quality footwear and 4 pairs of socks. Nail clippers

Why: Rough sleepers often have problems with their feet,  as they struggle to keep them clean, warm and dry. Being unable to regularly take there shoes off and having ill fitting and damaged footwear can cause lots of problems such as infections, blisters, and circulation issues. Having more than one pair of shoes means that after being worn, you can switch to a new pair while the worn pair dry out. A fresh pair of shoes and socks can ease the daily struggles and help prevent and relieve podiatry problems.

Working with the community: We run a quarterly trainer drive, where the local community donate unwanted, quality and clean footwear. After vetting the footwear we distribute them to the local homeless population. This raises awareness of chronic homelessness and brings the community together to support those in need. 

What’s included: Holiday gifts and sign-posting

Why: The holiday seasons (Easter, Halloween, Christmas etc.) can be a lonely time for rough sleepers as everyone else gets on with festivities around them. Statistics show that around 45%  of rough sleepers have been diagnosed with mental health problems.  Reaching out to people suffering from chronic homelessness and involving them in the festivities creates a more inclusive community. We provide a gift, and a sign posting leaflet which includes information on charities and services that are available to them.

What’s included: A healthy warm meal provided by the local community. A drink, cutlery, hand wipe etc.

Why: Apart from the basic need to eat, providing a warm cooked meal to rough sleepers helps join the community together. This projects brings local restaurants, local volunteers together and raises awareness of the problems faced by  those affected by homelessness. We encourage healthy  and fresh meals rather than junk food that is more likely to be donated. 

 To solve many of the negative issues caused by chronic or unexpected homelessness we need to work together as a community. Which is why, while carrying out our services we offer literature about other charities and organisations that may be able to offer support. It is important that we pool our resources for the greater good. So that we can provide the best service to the community, we often consult and work in conjunction with other services, charities and shelters.