‘As at the start of 2023, at least 271,000 people were recorded as homeless in England, including 123,000 children. This means that approximately one in 208 people in England are without a home.  ’
Shelter, Jan 23

Most people’s perception of someone experiencing homelessness in the UK is a person sleeping in a shop doorway or on a park bench, but there is a side of homelessness that is hidden, there are those that are fortunate to be housed in supported accommodation or hostels but there is over 250,000 people staying in temporary accommodation such as with family, friends or sofa-surfing. 

There are many contributing factors which have a huge impact on people becoming homeless such as affordable housing, unemployment, financial difficulties, relationship breakdown (for our younger people it is family conflict), life events, drug or alcohol addiction which ultimately leads to mental health problems that can leave young people and adults feeling isolated and alone.

What support is available?

Birchwood believes everyone should have a home.  Our extremely effective homeless service offers one-to-one support in getting people off the streets within West Lancashire and in finding a warm and safe long-term home.  Birchwood supports those in difficulty with their landlords, offering our mediation services to resolve any issues. 

Once you feel safe our support will continue whilst you are in your home and can offer a bespoke programme encompassing a wraparound service of counselling, meditation, and therapeutic yoga, with a unique pathway into volunteering supporting our social enterprises, offering an opportunity to give back and integration into the local community.

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Please contact us on 01695 713248 and ask for the housing team or to self refer please click here.