People become homeless for a multitude of reasons. They may have been physically or sexually abused and feel that they can no longer tolerate a life of torment. They may be the victims of a family breakdown after which there is nowhere for them to live. The stories relating to and reasons for their homelessness are varied and often horrifying.

Once 'on the street', then sleeping out means literally what it says.  Whether it be a shop doorway, park bench, a derelict house or just walking round all night and day, the end result is the same.  People are vulnerable to attack and abuse and are always at the mercy of the elements. Crime, prostitution and drug abuse are often the inevitable consequences in the search for an escape from a desperate situation.

This is the harsh reality of homelessness in Hull.

Doorstep can only help a percentage of those who are referred to us. We try to ensure that those who do get a place with us receive all the help, information and support available, to equip them to survive in their independent tenancies. We have realised that one of the main reasons for younger people failing in their independent tenancies is due to a lack of life skills that many of us may take for granted. Shopping, cooking, cleaning, paying bills, managing money and living in a community are all skills that would generally be learnt within the family environment. If, for whatever reason, this learning process has been disrupted, it is not surprising that young people need help with coping on their own. This is only one side of the support we offer. Help with sorting out benefits and linking-in with other agencies are all part of the work done.

We provide 24 hour cover, so if there is a problem, a worker is always available. 

Not only do we need the help of the governments, councils and other large funding bodies but we also need the support of individuals such as you.

You may or may not already know much about the real facts of homelessness but now you have read this you may wish to do something about it.

As a registered charity we are always short of funds. We can and do get some public money but we have to raise thousands of pounds every year just to survive. 

You may feel you could send us something or organise an event to raise money to help. Any amount, no matter how small, will be received with great thanks. Please get in touch.