Several years ago my office moved into central Bristol (near the Bear Pit) and this had a significant impact on my view of homelessness.

Within seconds of walking out of the office door the extent of the homelessness situation in Bristol is clearly evident. Every month that goes by, this situation seems to worsen.

Over the years I have come to understand that so much of homelessness may not be down to the money in your pocket and your ability to pay the rent/mortgage. Rather, so much of it is about what goes on in your head. Your mental position affects so much, your ability to deal with the situations that life throws at you. TAP helps people in practical and financial ways when they are homeless, or close to becoming homeless.

I know that many of us have strong support networks of friends and family, yet even still we sometimes find ourselves in dark places. Many people who find themselves homeless once had networks for support, good jobs, and friends. Yet now, they find themselves on the street. 

Often these people on our streets are shunned, abused and ignored. 

"When you look at a person, any person, remember that EVERYONE has a story. EVERYONE has gone through something that changed them."

TAP for Bristol and the charities is supports are working to help each one of these people on our streets. Also, they are striving to help people avoid homelessness in the first place. 

If you see someone on the street and asking for money and don't know how to respond - why not donate here, and help mine & Emma's wedding have a positive impact for the city where we work and its people.

** Don't forget the TAP points across the city, where you can give an instant, contactless £3 donation **