Each year on October 10th, World Homeless Day shines a light on the challenges that those going through homelessness experience. For us, this is something we’re used to doing on a daily basis, but World Homeless Day offers a great opportunity to share stories of hope and inspiration, and bring attention to some of the most pressing issues and concerns, across the globe.
When it comes to homelessness, there is no quick fix. We’ve got a lot of work to do in order to ensure that the cycle of homelessness is broken, and that those experiencing it are fully supported. Here we’re taking a look at why World Homeless Day is so important, and how you can get involved to make a difference.
Why do we need World Homeless Day?
Homelessness is a rising concern within society. There is no quick fix, or one size fits all solution, and it’s essential that we provide long-term and sustainable support to those who need it.
You might be thinking ‘there are plenty of organisations trying to resolve the issue.’ And you’d be right. But many of these organisations need your help. At Simon on the Streets, we’re a completely independent charity, receiving no funding from the government to carry out our outreach work. Amid the cost of living crisis, more and more people are either facing homelessness or at risk of it. As such, the demand for services like ours is on the rise, and the struggle to meet that demand is more challenging than ever.
Homelessness is on the rise
Compared to 2010, the number of people considered homeless in the UK has risen by 75%. This country now has over a quarter of a million people with no fixed address or permanent accommodation.
With the government’s pledge to ‘end rough sleeping and homelessness’ falling dramatically short, and the ongoing cost of living crisis, we anticipate this number will be even higher by 2024. If we’re going to break the cycle of homelessness, we have to act now.
Support is for life, not just for World Homeless Day
As we say above, World Homeless Day is a fantastic way to raise awareness. But we know that it’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the work that needs to be done all year round.
As an issue, homelessness is complex. It comes in so many different forms, and finding a solution goes way beyond a person getting a roof over their head. It’s about processing what’s happened to them, dealing with trauma, and finding the strength and courage to make sustainable change. That’s why the work of our outreach team is so important.
How can you help beyond World Homeless Day?
If World Homeless Day has inspired to take action and join us in breaking the cycle of homelessness for good, there are plenty of ways you can get involved.
We’ll be at the David Oluwale memorial bridge during Light Night Leeds on the 12th and 13th October. And Simon’s Big Sleep Out is back at Leeds Civic Hall on Thursday 19th October. Registration closes on Thursday 12th October - it’s not too late to sign up!
In addition to our bigger fundraising events, our regular corporate socials take place each and every month, and they’re the perfect opportunity for you to support a local charity and make some brilliant new connections. Keep an eye on our social channels for all of the latest details.
To learn more about how you can get involved with the work we do here at Simon on the Streets, all you need to do is get in touch - we’d love to chat with you.