LETTER: We must help the homeless

The coronavirus outbreak has made so many of us appreciate the sanctuary that home provides.

We have seen the Government, local councils and charities achieve the extraordinary by finding temporary housing for thousands of people sleeping rough or in unsafe accommodation. Proving that a safe and settled home for everyone is within our reach.

We know that our supporters care deeply about people facing homelessness, even more so during this pandemic. People have been going to real lengths to fundraise for us, from running marathons to playing the People’s Postcode Lottery.

Every one of them has contributed to helping people in the most vulnerable circumstances at this time. It’s meant that we’ve been able to continue to provide vital help and support over the phone and online so that people can rebuild their lives away from homelessness. In these challenging times we’ve also had to adapt, which is why we’ve been delivering food packages and hygiene essentials like hand sanitiser to people while they isolate.

But our work is not over. Now we need to make sure people are not forced back onto the streets. We also need to protect those who have lost work and are struggling to pay the rent and risk losing their homes.

We need your support to achieve this. We’ve seen how we can end homelessness if we come together during a crisis. Now let’s end it for good. Not just today, but tomorrow and forever. Not just for some, but for all.

To donate to Crisis please visit crisis.org.uk

Jon Sparkes, Chief Executive, Crisis