World Cup Keepy-uppy Challenge!
Every keepy-uppy helps end homelessness
Who we are
The Society of St James is a non-profit charity dedicated to preventing, relieving and ultimately ending homelessness. 365 days a year, our team of passionate staff and volunteers work alongside people who are homeless. Offering guidance, housing and solutions to ending their homelessness. We believe it is a moral human right to have somewhere safe to live and the right to be treated with dignity. We provide accommodation, specialist care & support, recovery services, mental wellbeing support and pathways to independent living.
- Founded in 1972 - Over 50 years of experience supporting people who are homeless.
- People-centred approach - Providing dignity, care, and personalised support.
- Range of services - From supported housing i.e. hostels and care homes to tailored specialist support like managed drinking and criminal justice.
- Community-focused - Volunteers, social enterprises, and partnerships helping people rebuild their lives.
Ending homelessness
Homelessness is a complex social issue affecting thousands of people across Hampshire and the UK. It can arise from a combination of factors, including a lack of affordable housing, unemployment, mental health challenges, substance misuse, domestic abuse, and relationship breakdowns. People experiencing homelessness often face multiple barriers, including limited access to healthcare, education, and social support, which can make ending homelessness extremely difficult.
At the Society of St James, we believe that understanding these challenges is the first step toward creating lasting solutions. By providing supported housing, personalised care, and wrap-around services, we help individuals stability, rebuild their confidence, and move toward long-term independence. Ending homelessness requires not only housing but also practical support and empowerment, ensuring everyone has the chance to live safely and with dignity.
How we support
The Society of St James delivers homelessness and support services across Hampshire, Southampton and Portsmouth for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. We provide person-centred, trauma-informed support that helps people move towards stability, recovery and independence. Some of the ways we help people are through our:
Recovery Hub
Specialist support for people affected by substance misuse, offering structured recovery programmes and one-to-one guidance.
Academy
Sport, education, training and volunteering opportunities that build skills, confidence and employability.
Hostels, Care Homes and Supported Lettings
Safe accommodation with tailored support to help people progress towards independent living.
Emergency support
Low threshold beds/night shelters to relieve homelessness.
Advice, Guidance and Job Opportunities
Practical support to improve wellbeing and support long-term recovery. Also, 50% of our staff at SSJ have lived experience. Through our Social Enterprises like Cafe in the Park and Jamies Computers, we provide volunteering and career opportunities.
Need help right now?
If you are homeless, sleeping rough, or about to lose your home, please contact the relevant support that is available. It is important that you get help as soon as possible; you do not have to face this alone.
Note: People cannot contact us directly for accomodation, we need to direct them to Southampton and Portsmouth City Councils first for most of our services. Only the Academy, The Recovery Hub and Floating support services are direct access - channels available on the current website.
Help us end homelessness locally
Your support helps the Society of St James provide accommodation, specialist support and long-term solutions for people experiencing homelessness across Hampshire.
Donate
Your donation to our homeless charity funds vital services and helps change lives.
Jobs
Support people experiencing homelessness by checking out our vacancies.
Partner With Us
Work with us to tackle homelessness locally through corporate partnerships.
Latest Blogs
What Causes Homelessness in the UK? 10 Common Reasons People Become Homeless
Homelessness is a complex issue affecting thousands of people across the UK. While rough sleeping is often the most visible form of homelessness, many people experience “hidden homelessness” by staying in temporary accommodation, sofa surfing, or living in unsuitable housing.
What Is Rough Sleeping? Understanding the Difference Between Rough Sleeping and Homelessness
Many people use the terms rough sleeping and homelessness interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Understanding the difference is important when discussing housing issues and the support available to vulnerable individuals.
The SSJ Academy
The SSJ Academy is about more than learning new skills – it’s about creating opportunities, building confidence, and helping people move forward with purpose. Whether through education, meaningful activities, or volunteering, every step taken can make a lasting difference.