Homelessness is an emergency whatever the season, but during the winter months with sub-zero temperatures, people are in even greater danger.

It is becoming an enormous problem in the city, with a staggering 23 homeless people reported to have died in 2018, up from 18 in 2017 and almost twice the national rate. Whilst it is a problem on our doorstep, quite literally, how often do we walk past a homeless person not sure of the best thing to do to help?

This winter, we are raising funds for a local homeless charity called iShelter, who operate Tabor House, Birmingham’s only permanent night shelter.

Tabor House offers far more than just a warm safe place to stay, it offers a mentoring programme to give individuals the best possible chance to find their feet and live fulfilling lives in the future. Tabor House opened its doors in September 2017 with 12 beds for people experiencing homelessness.

iShelter and its strength-based approach has helped many individuals secure employment and subsequently move on to rented accommodation. This is making a genuine difference to people’s lives, offering a hand-up not just a hand-out.

With recent studies showing the number of rough sleepers entering double-digit growth year on year, we have launched a winter charity fundraiser.

Here are some examples of the impact of donations:

• Basic toiletries for one person £3

• Dinner and breakfast for one person £5

• A bed for one night £10

• Dinner, breakfast, shower, laundry and a bed for the night £20

• Bed, food and support for the duration of 1 person’s stay £1,000

• Bed, food and support for one year £5,000

• Operation of the shelter for one year £120,000

Further information about iShelter can be found by vising their website: www.ishelter.org.uk

I hope you agree that this is a very worthy cause. Together we will be supporting some less fortunate people during the harsh winter months and throughout 2020. It is a donation that will keep on giving.

Thank you for your support!