What we are doing to help rough sleepers and those at risk of becoming homeless
Why some people initially refuse help
Although our aim is to house every single rough sleeper in Swindon, we often have to accept that not everybody wishes to be helped. This might be for the following reasons:
- Strong bonds of friendship and solidarity have formed with other homeless people and they do not wish to be separated.
- Most hostels and sheltered spaces do not permit the use of drugs or alcohol.
- They already have their needs met by volunteer groups who distribute provisions and make rough sleeping more comfortable.
- The type of accommodation we can offer isn’t always what they want.
- Some rough sleepers are at a particularly chaotic point in their lives and have complex mental health needs which prevent them from engaging with the help offered.