In the 28 years of supporting homeless people across West Sussex we have never seen anything like this. We are facing an unprecedented need for our services and this rise is set to continue. John Holmstrom, Chief Executive.

For every rough sleeper, some 20 others are sleeping on sofas, in vehicles, or insecurely housed. Now, as the virus spreads, these arrangements are breaking down. Covid-19 is bringing financial hardship, relationship breakdown and mental health issues, which all contribute to homelessness.

Many homeless men and women have been temporarily housed but they are very much alone, frightened, in poor health and more unsure than ever as to what the future holds. Often staying in one room, they have no support network and rely on practical and emotional support from our frontline keyworkers who are stretched to the limit.

This rising need sits alongside a huge drop (as much as 50%) in our in fundraising income as we have to cancel our events. Please help thank you.