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Christmas is coming…but not everyone will enjoy a fun family celebration with games around the fire. As winter sets in, for some people this will be their first year without a home.  The Whitechapel Centre is working to help all those without a home in the Liverpool region, from prevention to food packages, to supported accommodation, to outreach for people rough sleeping, and much more. We’re here for people who are homeless this Christmas, as we are throughout the year.
For Steve* it was a combination of many of these. He’s 22 now. He was sleeping rough as he faced mental health issues including PTSD, depression, anxiety, paranoia, and ADHD. Unsurprisingly he turned to drugs. Overwhelmed A Whitechapel Centre staff member, Jason*, began working with Steve, who longed to reduce his drug use, move to independent accommodation, and access the benefits he was entitled to. He was housed in a hostel but felt overwhelmed and his drug use spiralled. Jason offered practical support with Universal Credit and PIP applications, which were successful and provided financial stability. Jason said, “This practical assistance built trust. I was there whenever he needed someone to talk to.”  Growing confidence As Steve had a passion for exercise, Jason suggested they go to the gym together. Jason explained, “Although progress was slow at first, he eventually began to enjoy the workouts. As we attended more regularly, Steve became encouraging and motivating, not only for himself but for me, showcasing his natural talent for supporting others. This was a key moment, as it helped him rediscover a sense of purpose and achievement. We started to meet our fitness goals together. As his confidence grew he started to invest more time and energy in this pursuit. He saved his money to spend on gym classes, and equipment. During this period his substance use decreased significantly.” Steve continued cutting back on the drugs but realised they were too easily accessible and so wanted to move to his own flat. Jason took Steve to sign up for a course at a local sports organisation, which helps young people gain work and life skills, and provides free programmes including daily sports activities, mentoring, and qualifications like Maths and English. When Steve completed the course, he was offered the opportunity to pursue a personal training qualification, which he jumped at. From surviving to thriving Steve eventually moved into his own flat, started budgeting effectively, and now manages his finances well. He no longer uses drugs. Jason added, “His newfound stability allowed him to thrive, both personally and socially. He’s now dating and enjoys attending concerts and spending time with friends. He even took up playing an instrument again, and his performances reflect his growing confidence and enjoyment of life. He now prioritises his well-being above everything else and is in the process of completing his personal training course.”  Our street outreach team visit those who are sleeping rough every day and we get over 2,000 calls a month to our phone hotline Always Help Available. If you see someone sleeping rough in Liverpool you can call 0300 123 2041 so we can follow up.
If you would like to help those in Merseyside facing Christmas without a home, please take part in our Christmas appeal, you could help buy Christmas dinner and a gift (£25), donate goods or support in other ways. *Both names changed to protect identities
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