A Place to Begin Again: Andy’s Story and the Impact of Antifreeze

Every night in Brighton & Hove, people are experiencing homelessness, one of the consequences of poverty. For many, it starts with one bad break, losing a job, a relationship, or a home. These causes for poverty can send people spiralling into isolation, fear, and addiction. But thanks to supporters of Off The Fence’s Antifreeze programme, the story doesn’t end there.

Take Andy, for example.

When we met Andy, he was navigating homelessness and desperately seeking stability. He came to our Antifreeze Day Centre in Hove, where he accessed essential services such as showers, clean clothes, food, and one-to-one support. Through our immediate need projects, Andy received not only practical help but also encouragement and personalised advice.

Over time, with perseverance and support from our staff, Andy secured a full-time job along the south coast and began rebuilding his life. He recently expressed his gratitude for our services and support.

Andy’s story isn’t unique, but it is powerful. In the past year alone, Antifreeze saw:

2,571 drop-in attendances

539 showers taken (a 67% increase)

634 items of clothing distributed

604 faith-based support interactions

269 sleeping bags given to those in need

That’s why we’re calling on the community to take part in Big Sleep Out 2025 on Friday, 14th November. One night out can help provide nights of hope for people like Andy.

Your £25 registration fee includes hot meals, hot drinks, and cardboard for your shelter kit. BUT the real impact happens when you commit to raising £500 or more (maybe your employer offers matched giving). Every pound raised helps provide showers, clothing, goal-based projects, and vital casework.

This is more than just sleeping outside. It’s about standing in solidarity with people experiencing homelessness and fueling real change. Together, we can resist poverty, empower people, and restore hope.