Written by Sarah Haynes I Photographs by South_agency
Being homeless at any time of the year is an ordeal, but during the winter – and particularly around Christmastime – it can be especially hard to deal with. Not only is the weather usually inclement with rain and driving winds seen more often than not, but loneliness becomes a big factor.
With most shops featuring gifts, Christmas goodies, turkeys, crackers, festive jumpers and glittery lights, many homeless people will feel their situation more keenly. Very often, these homeless people have not much more than a blanket or two, and a sleeping bag. Shop doorways and other sheltered spaces are suddenly at a premium for people desperate to escape the misery of sleeping rough and the death rates among the homeless rise.
A report from Shelter says there are 307,000 Brits who are sleeping rough or in temporary housing, and, sadly, this figure is on the increase, which is why it’s important for as many people as possible to gather together and help in any way they can.
There are dozens of homeless shelters across London, so you’re very likely to find one in your area where you can support those who need help in your community.
The Day and Night Centre at St Martin-in-the-Fields. This offers immediate access to free, emergency shelter to 45 homeless people per night. Street Outreach teams are used to find these people and they can wash clothes, have a hot meal and have access to computers which means that they have an opportunity to contact relatives or friends. https://www.connection-at-stmartins.org.uk/day-emergency-night-centre/
Shelter From The Storm. This is a free shelter, open 365 days per year, it can accommodate 42 homeless people per night and it’s and funded solely by donations. This forward-thinking outfit is fundraising for a new, purpose built, homeless shelter to accommodate more people who are currently sleeping rough. Shelter From The Storm also works closely with the local community to promote understanding of homelessness and alleviate any fears. It needs volunteers who are able to work in shifts for the evening, overnight and breakfast. https://sfts.org.uk/
No Second Night Out. This concept has been pioneered in London. Outreach workers are used to scour the street each night to find those who are sleeping rough for the first time. As well as beds and food, it also offers access to support workers who can help these people with things like medical attention and social services.
So, whether it’s time or money that you can offer, there are plenty of ways that you can help a homeless person have a better Christmas. http://www.nosecondnightout.org.uk/
Streets Kitchen is a UK & Ireland grassroots group working to help the homeless community, providing daily outreaches with food, clothing and information that benefits our streets. We work in partnership with others across the UK and beyond including with the Refugee Community Kitchen.
