Exploring Homelessness, Part 1: Homelessness Through Georgia’s Eyes

Meet Georgia, a dedicated support worker at our Rough Sleeping Support Service in Portsmouth. This vital service encompasses three temporary accommodation blocks, offering over 100 places for people to stay and all tailored to individual support needs. The team also includes an outreach team and a Rough Sleeping Hub, serving as the initial point of contact for many experiencing homelessness in the city.

Becoming homeless is a deeply frightening experience, leaving individuals feeling distressed, confused, and utterly lost. Many who come through our doors are facing immense challenges and don’t know where to turn for help.

At our Rough Sleeping Support Service, we prioritise creating a safe and welcoming environment. Building strong relationships with individuals is paramount, allowing us to understand their unique circumstances and connect them with the appropriate support services.

Georgia’s role spans across two of the temporary accommodation blocks and extends to providing crucial support within the Rough Sleeping Hub. This video offers a glimpse into her daily life, showcasing the vital work of our support workers who are dedicated to ending homelessness and empowering individuals to break the cycle.

Key takeaways from Georgia’s experience:

• Individuals experiencing homelessness often face an array of different challenges, including mental health issues, addiction, and trauma.
• Homelessness is not inevitable.
• Homelessness can happen to anyone.
• Building trust is essential. Establishing trust and rapport with individuals is crucial for effective support.
• Tailoring support to individual needs and circumstances is vital for successful outcomes.
• Effective support requires collaboration between various agencies and community organisations.

How you can help:

• Spread awareness: Share this blog post, raise awareness and reduce stigma relating to homelessness in your community.
• Donate: Support the Society of St James to continue to provide essential services to people who are experiencing homelessness.
• Sign up: Receive updates by signing up to our newsletter here.

By understanding the challenges faced by people who are homeless and by supporting us, we can continue to deliver vital services and end homelessness across Hampshire. You can be part of the solution to ending homelessness in our community. For more information, please visit our website. 

Exploring Homelessness: This is a 3-part series exploring homelessness in your community. We will be following some of our dedicated support workers carrying out daily support work across the different services that the Society of St James deliver. Look out for parts 2 and 3 throughout 2025.