With the cold weather continuing to hit hard, here at Simon on the Streets we’re urging everyone to take action if they see anyone sleeping rough or facing homelessness this winter.
On any one night across the UK, there’s an average of 2,440 people sleeping on the streets. With temperatures now dropping below freezing, these are dangerous conditions that could prove fatal to so many people.
Homelessness is difficult no matter the time of year, but the winter months come with unique challenges. With this in mind, let’s talk about how you can help.
Practical support
The unrelenting cost of living crisis has meant that more and more people are being forced into homelessness. As such, it’s vital that those affected are able to access some level of support. When it comes to the practicalities, here are a couple of things you can do if you see someone living on the streets this winter.
Buy a hot meal or drink
Offering to buy someone a hot drink or meal is a really great thing to do. It’s a good idea to try and see what they would like first before buying anything, as then you’ll know you’re getting the best possible item in the circumstances. For example, are they vegetarian? Do they have a food allergy? Do they like or dislike a particular item?
We’re not suggesting that you need to work through an entire menu, but just because someone is facing homelessness, this doesn’t mean that they’re unaffected by health issues, or that they don’t deserve to have a choice about the things they eat. Asking these questions will also mean that anything you do decide to buy will be used and not go to waste.
Simple questions, an absence of judgement, and small acts of kindness like this really do go a long way.
Donating warm items
Jackets, coats, and blankets are vital in the colder months. Gloves, hats and hand warmers are really helpful too.
You could carry a few of these with you to give to people you see while out and about, or donate these items to charities that you know will be able to distribute them. Remember to always ask organisations what donations they accept at first, as different charities will have different items they need or that they’ll be able to accept.
Freezing weather can kill
Death and homelessness is becoming a worsening problem. In 2021, the Museum of Homelessness estimated that 1286 people died whilst facing homelessness in England and Wales. Sadly, it’s likely that we’ll see this number increase.
The risk of freezing to death on the streets is incredibly high for those forced to sleep rough. Hypothermia occurs when your body’s temperature drops below 35 degrees Celsius, and if left untreated, is life threatening. Pre-existing medical conditions, such as respiratory diseases, also worsen in cold weather.
If you see that someone is in distress, or in need of urgent medical attention, please be sure to call 999 for an emergency ambulance.
Also bear in mind that winter isn’t only dangerous for those sleeping rough. There are so many people who could be facing homelessness and struggling financially, but they may struggle to talk about it. Keep checking in with any family members or friends who you think might be struggling, as letting them know that you’re there could be a lifeline.
People facing homelessness are not invisible
Even if you’re unable to help practically, simply saying hello or giving somebody a smile as you pass them on the street can go a long way. Loneliness is such a common problem amongst people facing homelessness, with many often going hours or days without speaking to someone.
This can be incredibly debilitating for a person’s mental health, and lead to feelings of worthlessness and poor self-esteem - a big part of the very damaging cycle of homelessness.
Starting a conversation with a hello, taking the time to have a quick chat can really make all the difference.
If you’re in Leeds or Bradford, contact Simon on the Streets
Although the small practical gestures are very helpful, the priority is always to try and seek help whenever it’s needed. Supporting people to get the help they need is paramount, and you can always contact Street Link and us here at Simon on the Streets for guidance and next steps.
The more information you can provide, the better. A street name, nearest door number or nearby landmark are all helpful. This information is passed onto charity outreach teams who will go out and offer vital support.
If you see someone sleeping rough in Leeds or Bradford, you can contact us directly on 0113 345 2270 or email admin@simononthestreets.co.uk.
Whether it’s cold spells or heatwaves, each season is a serious risk for people living on the streets. That’s why the fight to end homelessness is vital, but we need your help. If you want to help us support those facing homelessness this winter, donate here or get in touch with us.