Domestic abuse is one of the leading causes of homelessness. When home is no longer a safe place, people may be forced to leave with nowhere else to go. This can affect anyone, regardless of gender, sexuality or background. Families, individuals, children and older people can all be affected. The trauma of abuse is often […]
Streetwise Opera has launched “Opera Pioneers” Streetwise Opera is a UK-based performing arts charity founded in 2002. Its mission is to inspire and empower people who are experiencing or have experienced homelessness. They do this through co-creative opera workshops in homelessness centres and major arts venues, public performances where participants perform alongside professional artists, and […]
A new resource launched by Birmingham City Council and Spring Housing Association this month is shining a long-overdue light on the vital issue of how people experiencing homelessness are impacted by period poverty, and what frontline organisations can do to support them with dignity. The Period Literacy Toolkit, authored by Thea Raisbeck, Head of Research […]
For many women trying to turn their lives around—whether they’re facing long-term unemployment, housing insecurity, or rebuilding after a crisis—the first step towards stability is getting into work. That’s where Smart Works Birmingham comes in. Smart Works is a UK charity with a simple, powerful mission: to help women feel confident and prepared for job […]
This July, Barnardo’s is launching a new round of its JOBS Project in Coventry—a programme that’s not just about getting young people into work, but about building their confidence, giving them skills for life, and offering real chances at long-term employment. Led by Arun Shoker, Project Worker for Banardos, the JOBS Project is an 8-week […]
Stop Loan Sharks Week 2025 runs from 19–25 May, and this year’s theme, “We’re here whenever you’re ready”, emphasises a compassionate, non-judgemental approach to supporting individuals affected by illegal money lending. In the West Midlands, as in many regions, people facing financial hardship or at risk of homelessness are particularly vulnerable to illegal lenders. Loan […]
A Visit to the West Midlands Multibank: One Month On and Already Making an Impact In April 2025, I had the opportunity to visit the West Midlands Multibank, a new initiative managed by Birmingham Voluntary Service Council (BVSC). It had been open just a month, and I was eager to see how it was taking […]
In the heart of Birmingham, a vital NHS service is making a big difference to those without a place to call home. The Homeless Health Exchange (HeX) has long been a cornerstone of health support for people experiencing homelessness, insecure housing, or seeking asylum in the city. Now, it’s entering a new chapter. From William […]
Street Support West Midlands is proud to spotlight the urgent call from YMCA Black Country for host families to provide safe accommodation for vulnerable young people. This initiative aims to address a critical shortage in the area, offering a lifeline to individuals aged 18 to 25 who cannot live with their families. Supporting Young People […]
Tucked away in the back streets of Digbeth, Birmingham, SIFA Fireside is making a significant impact on the lives of those facing homelessness. Over the past few years, this committed organisation has transformed its services to better meet the needs of people experiencing rough sleeping and other forms of homelessness. From providing vital support like […]
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