In September National Figures estimated that up to 438 people are sleeping rough on any one night across England. Outside of London, Brighton has one of the highest homeless rates per capita. 

Last year the St John Ambulance Brighton Homeless Service helped more than 870 homeless clients - 51 of which were under the age of 25. There were 163 nurse interventions and its volunteers gave advice on alcohol and health issues to more than 320 homeless people. 

Through a weekly nurse-led clinic on Hove Seafront and drop-in clinics at St Patrick’s Hostel and Night Shelter and St. Anne's Day Centre, the team provide a unique gateway to the healthcare services not normally available but so desperately needed by the homeless community. The Service receives no government funding and relies entirely upon the dedication of its volunteers to continue.

On Friday 28th November the Brighton Homeless Service will be staging a Sleep Out, in Jubilee Square in the heart of Brighton, in order to raise awareness of homeless issues generally and the services the team have to offer the local homeless community. The event is supported by CEO, Tub Collins, and County President, Major Mark Scrase-Dickins, both of whom will be sleeping out on the night. 

Not limited to just Brighton, St John Ambulance Sussex also provides access to healthcare services for the Hastings homeless community through a drop-in clinic with Nurse Independent Prescribing facilities at the Seaview Project Day Centre. In 2007, our Hastings service helped 1,182 clients. In conjunction with The Conquest Hospital, we are currently investigating access to healthcare for homeless people who have been discharged from A&E but require some form of aftercare. By sharing of experiences the team aims to identify the type of health needs encountered in this situation and assess what can be done to bridge the gap.

 The recent economic downturn is likely to increase homelessness nationwide, and we need to prepare now. Spread this message far and wide, tell all your colleagues, friends and family and help us to ensure that the invaluable services of both the Brighton and Hastings Homeless teams are able continue by sponsoring us now or by coming to support the event on the 28th November.

 Thank you.