Throughout 2023, I have been lucky enough to have Crisis as my client. I've seen first-hand what they do for some of the most vulnerable people in the country, not just at Christmas, but all year round. The level of intensive, expert, one-to-one support offered at Crisis really does rebuild lives. It isn't just about getting someone into a home, it's about helping them feel like a real person again.

Often I've sat next to members of the front line services team, listening in awe to them on the phone, as they talk to people who've been outside all night, or are living with serious mental health issues that aren't being supported - traumatised people for whom the safety net doesn't exist anymore. Patiently and empathetically, they help unpick complex problems and enable people to navigate a byzantine housing system that would confound anyone.

I've heard a lot of stories that have infuriated me this year - the worst of which was the English council who gave a woman fleeing from domestic abuse, a tent and a one way ticket to Cardiff as a solution to her homelessness. Clearly, even the tent won't be allowed much longer....

This Christmas, I am volunteering for Crisis as part of the Sponsored Volunteering 2023 campaign, and if you feel as strongly about this issue as I do, I would be delighted if you would consider sponsoring me. In addition to working on their Christmas Philanthropy campaign, I will be volunteering in one of Crisis three London hotels on Christmas Day, helping the team to provide warmth, companionship and vital services to those facing homelessness.

This focused intervention starts on 20 December and runs until mid-January. Guests who would otherwise be rough sleeping on London's streets, receive an en-suite bedroom, hot meals, snacks, entertainment, kindness, mental health support, help with addictions, expert guidance on finding accommodation, optician appointments, hairdressing, manicures....I could go on. No other charity does this kind of wrap around support over the holiday period. Last year 85% of people who stayed through to mid-January did not return to rough sleeping.

Your support will help fund Crisis' year-round services and ensure that more people are able to end their homelessness for good. Our target amount is £2,000 GBP and with your help, we can reach it together.

We know that a home isn't something you earn, it's a human right. Join me in making a difference in someone's life today by sponsoring my volunteering efforts with Crisis this Christmas. Thank you X