Winter can be a magical time for many, with festive lights, warm gatherings, and the promise of a new year. However, for the thousands of people experiencing homelessness, winter represents a season of heightened vulnerability, isolation, and danger. As temperatures drop, the risks associated with being unsheltered rise dramatically, ranging from hypothermia and frostbite to severe respiratory illnesses. Addressing these challenges requires both systemic solutions and community support.
The Impact of Winter on Homelessness:
- Severe Health Risks
Exposure to freezing temperatures increases the likelihood of hypothermia, frostbite, and other life-threatening conditions. Prolonged exposure to cold can exacerbate chronic health issues like heart disease and respiratory conditions, which are already prevalent among the homeless population. - Mental Health Struggles
Winter amplifies feelings of isolation and despair. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and the emotional toll of surviving harsh conditions take a significant toll on mental well-being. - Strain on Emergency Services
Homeless shelters and support services face immense pressure during the colder months. While some shelters expand their capacity, the demand often outpaces availability, leaving many without a safe place to stay.
Visit here to know more about the health impacts of cold weather.
In the UK, the rise in the cost of living, limited affordable housing, and the impact of austerity measures have compounded the challenges faced by the homeless. In winter, these systemic issues lead to a sharp increase in rough sleeping and emergency housing needs.
How to Help a Homeless Person in this Winter:
While systemic solutions are essential to addressing homelessness long-term, individual acts of kindness can make a big difference. Here’s how you can help someone facing homelessness this winter.
- Provide Immediate Assistance
If you encounter someone who appears to be struggling in the cold:
- Offer Warm Clothing or Blankets: Scarves, gloves, hats, and thermal socks can help keep them warm.
- Provide Hot Food or Drinks: A warm meal or cup of tea can make a world of difference on a cold day.
- Carry Winter Care Kits: Include essentials like thermal socks, hand warmers, snacks, and hygiene items.
- Support Local Shelters and Services
Many shelters and charities ramp up their efforts in winter. You can:
- Donate: Contribute funds, clothing, or supplies to local shelters or winter-specific campaigns.
- Volunteer: Offer your time & assist organisations that offer winter-specific support.
- Spread Awareness: Use social media and community platforms to educate others about the challenges faced by homeless individuals during winter.
- Offer Compassion
Sometimes, the smallest gestures matter the most:
- Be Respectful: Treat people experiencing homelessness with dignity.
- Take Time to Listen: A kind conversation can provide emotional warmth and a sense of connection.
What to do if you are Homeless or Know Someone at Risk of Becoming Homeless:
– If you are concerned about someone over the age of 18 that you have seen sleeping rough in England or Wales, you can send an alert to StreetLink. To send an alert click here. If you think the person you are concerned about is in immediate danger or needs urgent care, please call 999.
– Click here to apply for council housing.
– Contact Refuge for Women and Children against domestic violence on their helpline number 0808 2000 247. Click here for more details.
– To get help from the women’s aid directory, visit here
– You can apply to the council to get somewhere to live if you’re homeless or you’ll become homeless within 8 weeks. To check if you are eligible for help & to know how to apply, visit citizens advice website
– To check who can get homelessness help & how to get it, visit the website of Shelter.
– To know support options for people with no recourse to public funds visit the NRPF network or contact commonweal housing on 02077297985 or email housing@praxis.org.uk . To know more about the support system, visit here. You can also contact Southhall Black Sisters who help black and minoritised women who are victims of domestic violence without recourse to public funding. Get in touch with them through their helpline 0208 571 0800or visit their site here.
SAHS’s Empowering Approach:
At Severn Angels Housing and Support, we understand the causes of Homelessness and are committed to helping homeless and vulnerable women. Our programmes provide safe housing, emotional support, and resources to empower women to rebuild their lives.
Homelessness is a year-round issue, but winter highlights its harsh realities. By working together, we can bring warmth, care, and hope to those in need. No one should face winter alone. Let’s come together to make a change. Small actions, whether donating, volunteering, or raising awareness, can make a big difference.
