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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
What is the Household Support Fund (HSF)? The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a fantastic initiative aimed at helping people who are struggling with housing-related costs. Whether it’s rent, utility bills, or essential household items, the HSF is here to provide a helping hand. It’s managed by local councils within the West Midlands Combined Authority […]
Are you facing a tough time this Christmas? Walsall is holding a special event called Caring Christmas especially for families and individuals who are struggling financially or feeling alone during the holidays. What is Caring Christmas? Caring Christmas is a warm and welcoming event where you can connect with others, enjoy a delicious free meal, […]
There cannot be many people in the UK who have never seen or heard of the Big Issue. Maybe you have seen one of the thousands of vendors selling the latest issue on high streets up and down the UK; maybe you have purchased one, or have a subscription. Founded in 1991, the Big Issue […]
by Keeley Jones, Deputy CEO/Operations Manager This coming winter, we are hoping to support as many individuals and families in our local communities with essential items. Christmas is the season of goodwill, when we see so much generosity and kindness, and have the pleasure of meeting so many wonderful people, community groups, faith groups and […]
Have you ever heard of loan sharks or illegal money lending? Being a victim of illegal money lending, such as borrowing from loan sharks, can put you at risk of homelessness. When people struggle to repay the high interest rates and fees charged by loan sharks, they may find themselves trapped in a cycle of […]
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