BLOGMAS DAY 16:

I recently visited Edinburgh with my boyfriend. One thing I didn’t talk about in my post, was the number of homeless people I saw. I felt so helpless, as many of us do, debating as to whether I should give them money or not, uncertain as to how they might spend that money. So how can you know, for sure, where the money is going? One way is to buy some food or water and just hand it to them with a few kind words. In doing this, I have had some amazing conversations with people over a sandwich and a hot chocolate. If you don’t feel this is something you can do, for whatever reason, here’s something you might consider.

StreetLink

There is an app called StreetLink, which “exists to help end rough sleeping”. It enables any member of the public to connect local support services and those who are sleeping on the streets. This is what you need to do. It’s straightforward. It’s easy.

Here’s how it works:

If you pass someone who is sleeping rough in England or Wales and this concerns you, you can send an alert to StreetLink. You can alert the local authority or local outreach service so that they can find the person you have seen and give them the support that they need. All you have to do is say where and when you have seen the person and include some simple details like gender, age, clothing etc. Within 10 days, if you wish, you will receive details of any action taken by the local authority, in response to your alert.

There’s no risk, there’s no commitment, there is no further responsibility on your part. Yes, it’s that easy and the app is free. Doing what I’ve described above will not cost you a penny, but, why not also donate to help this fantastic organisation here.

Why not let this be your Christmas donation this year? 

Download it and start helping a homeless person now.

I would find it heartwarming to hear of anything you do, so please do share it in a comment.

Let’s do this together. Let’s make a difference.

N xxxx