Coventry homelessness charity 'only able to help a third' of those in need as demand soars

A homelessness charity in Coventry says it was only able to help one-third of the 700 people who approached it for services this year. Coventry Cyrenians, set to mark their 50th anniversary this year, have struggled with the increase in demand for their services.

Chief executive of the charity, Caron Williams, says the homelessness issue is 'getting worse' with many struggling with mental health and people getting poorer, and houses 'not being built at the rate the city is growing.'

The charity recently launched its Winter Appeal to help with donations and fund its annual Christmas Day event, which gives the vulnerable and less fortunate a hot meal, presents, and entertainment on a festive day. So far, the appeal on JustGiving has raised £255 of its £15,000 target.

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She said that the cost-of-living crisis is impacting people's daily lives, but she still hopes to help as many people as possible this Christmas: "We’re determined as a charity to make sure that as many people as possible who need help this winter are kept warm and have a hot meal, especially on Christmas Day."

The people who were turned away from their services often resulted in a large number of people sleeping rough in Coventry. Caron told BBC CWR: "Coventry has got gradually fuller, and as a result, there are 9,000 families currently waiting on the social housing register in the city."

In addition, Coventry City Council was confirmed as one of the 115 local authorities to receive a share of the government's £10m emergency fund to help tackle the issue of rough sleeping this winter, with £108,000 for the city. However, Caron says the money 'wouldn't be enough' as the situation is 'really difficult'.

Caron added that donations are needed 'now more than ever before' as the current economic crisis means the winter will be a 'huge challenge' for many people: "The Christmas Day event at the Methodist Central Hall is for anyone who doesn’t have access to a hot meal. We’re hoping the appeal will help to bring some much-needed joy and comfort not only on the big day but throughout the winter."

To make a donation to Coventry Cyrenians this year, click the JustGiving page here. For more information about Coventry Cyrenians, visit the website.

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