In the 28 years of supporting homeless people across Sussex we have never seen anything like this crisis. We are facing an unprecedented need for our services and this rise is set to continue. John Holmstrom, Chief Executive.
For every rough sleeper, approximately 20 others are sleeping on sofas, in vehicles, or insecurely housed. Now, with fear of a virus sweeping the country these arrangements are breaking down. Covid-19 is accelerating financial hardship, relationship breakdown and mental health issues.
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 are reliant on practical and emotional support from our frontline keyworkers who are stretched to the limit providing emergency support.
We are having to cancel fundraising events which could result in a 50% reduction in fundraising income.