Homeless people in Norwich will be able to enjoy a hot shower, new clothes and a haircut in the city thanks to an initiative planned by members of Under 1 Roof, Westwick Street, St Martins Training and Development Centre in collaboration with 12th Man and other organisations in the city.
Members of Under 1 Roof either are, or have been homeless or are at risk of homelessness. They have a desire for people to feel cared for on the day. People can collect a voucher that will allow them a free shower, a haircut, the use of a laundrette, a change of clothes and some food. 12th Man have organised barbers trained in mental health first aid and City Reach will make their premises available for showers.
Learning and Programme Development Manager Fiona Joyce said, “The members of Under 1 Roof are passionate about leading a day that will raise awareness of homelessness and mental health issues and have been instrumental in bringing this day to fruition.”
The emphasis of World Homeless Day is to give practical assistance to people within the local community as well as to raise awareness of the issue of homelessness on a local and global level.
Shelter will be hosting an event at Blackfriars Hall in collaboration with Norwich City Council to help raise public awareness that the issues of homelessness is much wider than rough sleeping. There are many incidents in people’s lives that cause them to become homeless and there are many agencies in Norwich who work hard to try and stop that happening.
The event in Blackfriars Hall will offer the public advice and information on what services they can access from a range of partners who work together to end homelessness in Norwich.
Members of the public can come for information and advice between 10am and 4pm on the day.
It is no coincidence that World Homeless Day is observed on the same day as World Mental Health day as 86% of homeless people experience some sort of mental health issue. It is an opportunity to draw attention to the needs of homeless people and to encourage an understanding and supportive response from the local community.
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