Supporting people experiencing homelessness this Christmas
Homelessness is a growing issue in England, with rising costs of living and a lack of affordable housing pushing many people into crisis. National charity Crisis is working tirelessly to help individuals find their way out of homelessness and campaign for the long-term changes needed to solve the problem.
The statistics are alarming. Over the past year:
- A 12% increase in the number of people using Crisis’s services.
- Nearly 250,000 households in England are experiencing the worst forms of homelessness, including rough sleeping, sofa surfing, or living in unsuitable temporary accommodations.
- Rough sleeping alone has risen by 27% in the past year.
These figures show just how urgent the problem is.
Crisis at Christmas
This Christmas, thousands of people experiencing homelessness will rely on Crisis for support. They will provide hotel rooms across London for individuals who would otherwise sleep rough, along with day centres offering warmth, food, and advice. Across Britain, their frontline services will assist over 6,000 people.
These efforts are crucial. No one should be without a safe, warm place to stay during the holidays—or any day of the year.
How You Can Help
We can all play a part in tackling homelessness. Here are some ways you can support Crisis and make a difference:
- Donate
Even a small donation can help provide essentials like food, shelter, and support. Crisis also uses donations to fund long-term solutions, like securing housing and training for people in need. - Volunteer Your Time
Crisis relies on volunteers to run their Christmas centres and services. Whether it’s serving meals, offering advice, or just lending a listening ear, your time can make a big impact. - Raise Awareness
Talk about the issue of homelessness with friends, family, and on social media. Share the work Crisis is doing and encourage others to support the cause. - Fundraise
Organize a local event—like a bake sale, fun run, or sponsored challenge—to raise money for Crisis. Many people enjoy getting involved when it’s for a good cause. - Support Campaigns for Change
Homelessness won’t end without tackling its root causes, such as the lack of affordable housing and high rents. Support Crisis’s campaigns for better housing policies by signing petitions and contacting local representatives. - Be Kind to People You See
If you notice someone sleeping rough, consider offering them a warm drink, food, or simply a conversation. You can also let them know about services like Crisis that can help.
A Chance to Change Lives
Homelessness can happen to anyone, but with the right support, it doesn’t have to define someone’s life. This Christmas, let’s come together to help Crisis provide hope, comfort, and real solutions for thousands of people in need.
To learn more or get involved, visit https://www.crisis.org.uk. Every action counts!