As we emerge from a global pandemic, support for vulnerable rough sleepers is more vital than ever.

A huge amount of work has been done to help keep vulnerable people safe throughout the Covid crisis, but now we need to make sure no one feels they need to return to the streets.

Whats been achieved to help people off the streets shows what can be done with the right resources in place. But the next stages set a new range of challenges as the full financial impact of the national lockdown begins to be felt.

We know that the best chance for a homeless person to get off the streets and stay off the streets is with professional help.

People need help and support to adapt to living in new ways. Helping people away from rough sleeping takes time and compassion.

Making sure help reaches homeless people is far more effective than giving money to people directly. Make Change Count is a way for you to make that happen.

Help us help others, by giving to charity not on the street. Everyone needs help sometimes. Help homeless people in Brighton & Hove to get off the streets by giving to local charities.

The Make Change Count local organisations work together to provide dignity and respect to vulnerable people who are living on the streets, homeless or at risk of homelessness.

With direct action, practical help and compassionate personalised support, these professionals provide a real chance for people to rebuild their lives in a safe environment.

The Make Change Count campaign makes a difference by:

1. Helping people who are rough sleeping to access support services available in the city and to move away from the streets for good

2. Encouraging an alternative option to giving directly to individuals on the street

3. Asking residents to let Streetlink know where to find anyone in need so tailored help can be offered (more details below)

Money raised as part of this campaign will be shared between the participating organisations: Brighton Housing Trust, Sussex Nightstop, Equinox, Antifreeze, The Clock Tower Sanctuary, YMCA Downslink Group and YMCA Brighton.

All money donated to the Make Change Count campaign goes to people in need in our city. Contributions are used to provide food, access to shower facilities, healthcare, clothing and a wide range of practical help based on individual needs.

Outreach workers and street services guide people to access the right accommodation where they will be further helped on a one to one basis to recover physically and mentally from the trauma of rough sleeping.

No funds raised are used for administration of the charities or the campaign. If £5 is donated, then £5 will go to people in need.

Make Change Count has been running since 2016 and is supported by Brighton & Hove City Council, Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner and Sussex Police.

If you are concerned about someone sleeping rough in England or Wales, contact Streetlink via www.streetlink.org.uk or by calling 0300 500 0914.

The details you provide are sent to the local authority or outreach to help them find the individual and connect them to support. Outreach workers are experienced in supporting people to move away from the streets.