On 27th of April I'll be running the London Marathon, fundraising for a local homeless charity - Spires!

Spires is a south London based charity working across Stockwell, Brixton, Streatham, Tooting, West Norwood & Croydon to support rough sleepers and to prevent homelessness for disadvantaged and at-risk people. Many are dealing with complex issues such as unemployment, financial pressure and substance or alcohol addiction, as well as physical and mental health concerns.

Spires provides support that will gradually see them build confidence, resilience & independence to exit or prevent homelessness and poverty. They support at-risk people's well-being, and ensure they have improved access to housing, or less risk of eviction, to provide safety and stability to their lives.

In 2024 Spires provided housing support to 316 people with 143 being supported into accommodation and 34 helped to avoid eviction. 117 people received health support with 28 people supported to engage with the mental health team, 35 supported to attend a health appointment and 18 supported to engage with drug and alcohol support services. 107 people received benefits support with 48 people supported to maintain benefits, 42 supported to receive benefits and 54 provided with legal support. Additionally, Spires Women's Service supported 133 women through outreach and drop-in services, and Spires' Croydon drop-in service supported 110 newly-granted refugees facing homelessness.