What is homelessness?
Homelessness is a complex and deeply distressing experience that can take many forms. For those affected, it is often frightening and isolating, bringing a heightened risk of physical and mental ill health, frequently shaped by past trauma.
The Society of St James believes that a safe place to call home is a fundamental human right. Without it, even the simplest aspects of life become difficult. While street homelessness is visible in many towns and cities, it represents only part of the picture. Thousands more people are experiencing what is often described as “hidden homelessness” - living in temporary, overcrowded, or unsuitable accommodation, or relying on friends and family for somewhere to sleep.
Across the UK, thousands of people are currently without a permanent, secure home, and the true scale of homelessness is difficult to measure. Many people affected are not seen sleeping rough, yet still have no place they can call their own. Worryingly, the number of people facing homelessness continues to rise. Join our newsletter to stay up to date with our work and how we are responding.
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Our history
In 1972, the Society of St James was a group of volunteers from a collection of churches who opened up a church hall to accommodate 11 homeless men. Many of the men we worked with in those early days were struggling with heavy drinking and the team realised very quickly that offering shelter was just the first step in helping people get back on their feet.
Although our organisation and the services we provide has changed in the last 50 years, our ethos remains the same. We are still working alongside people to support them to navigate the sometimes broken system. We are here to prevent, relieve and ultimately end homelessness. We still believe that everyone deserves not just a second or third chance, but as many as it takes to enable them to change their lives for the better.
SSJ values
At the Society of St James, our values guide everything we do. We are committed to empowering people experiencing homelessness through person-centred support, safe accommodation, and pathways to lasting independence. Working together to create meaningful, long-term change for those experiencing homlessness.
Our approach
At the Society of St James, we take a person-centred, trauma-informed approach to tackling homelessness. Recognising that many of the people we support face multiple and complex challenges, including mental health issues, addiction, unemployment, and social isolation. Our experienced teams provide tailored support, safe accommodation, and specialist recovery services designed around individual needs.
By building trust and offering consistent long-term guidance, we empower individuals to regain stability, rebuild confidence, and move towards independent living at their own pace. Through compassionate care and practical solutions, we are committed to creating sustainable pathways out of homelessness and improving wellbeing across our communities.
If you would like to get involved whether your an individual, institution or a business feel free to book a call or email us.
Our impact
Every year, The Society of St James supports people experiencing homelessness to rebuild stability and confidence. Our impact goes beyond accommodation - it is about helping people move forward with hope and resilience. Donate to make a lasting impact by supporting all our essential services.
Subscribe to our Newsletter so you are informed and keep up to date with our mission of ending homelessness locally. From fundraising events to raising awareness about our services like the Academy, Supported Lettings, Managed Drinking and much more.