The Society of St James

SSJ has been quietly delivering results for years – now we need to shout about it!

Fahim Miah — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 10:59:20 +0000

For more than 50 years, the Society of St James has been helping people move away from homelessness and towards a more positive future – one person at a time.

What began as a night shelter in Southampton has grown into a charity supporting people across Hampshire, wherever people experiencing homelessness need help.

Why our approach works

When someone has been let down before, trusting another organisation or believing that life can really change isn't always easy.

That's where lived experience can make a difference.

Around 50% of our staff have lived experience themselves. Some have experienced homelessness, substance use or mental health challenges.

They understand what it can feel like to be in a difficult place – because they've been there too.

Sometimes, having someone alongside you who genuinely understands can be the first step towards believing that change is possible.

“My recovery feels ten times better now I’m at SSJ.”

The difference we're making

Every year, SSJ supports more than 3,500 people.

We provide 500+ bedspaces to help people move away from homelessness.

And our range of programmes provides different types of support, helping people to:

Prevent homelessness before it happens
Find a safe place to live
Improve their mental health and wellbeing
Address substance use
Build confidence and independence
Develop skills for the future
Move towards long-term stability

Now we need your help

Like every charity, funding is vital to our work.

But before we ask you to support us financially, we want you to know who we are and see the difference your local charity is making.

We want to share more of the successes, the stories and the people behind the numbers.

And you can help us do that.

Follow. Like. Share. Subscribe.

Follow SSJ on social media.

Like and share our stories.

Tell someone about the work we're doing.

And sign up for our newsletter so you can hear about the difference we're making across Hampshire.

We've been quietly getting on with the work for more than 50 years.

Now, we need your help to shout about it.

Will you stand with SSJ?

Sign up for our newsletter today and help us share the story.

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Why do so many people struggling with homelessness have a history of poor mental health?

Fahim Miah — Fri, 02 Oct 2026 09:55:00 +0000

What happens when life simply becomes too much?

For many people experiencing homelessness, the story starts long before they lose their home.

It can begin with:

Childhood trauma
Domestic abuse
Poor mental health
Relationship breakdown
Unemployment or financial pressure
A lack of support

And it can happen to anyone.

Someone can have a university degree, a career, a home and a family – and still reach a point where life becomes overwhelming.

Most of us have experienced difficult times. But having someone to turn to can make all the difference.

Homelessness can make mental health worse

Once someone becomes homeless, the uncertainty and isolation can have a huge impact.

Not knowing where you'll sleep, where your next meal will come from, or how you will get your life back on track can affect your:

Confidence
Sense of belonging
Self-worth
Mental health
Hope for the future

That's why tackling homelessness is also about supporting the whole person.

Change starts with one person

At SSJ, our programmes support people at different stages of their journey.

From FLAGS, which focuses on prevention, to CDR, SSJ&I and Re-fit, we help people find support, rebuild confidence and take steps towards a more stable future.

Because ending homelessness can sound like an impossible task.

But what if we look at it one person at a time?

One person supported before they lose their home.

One person finding hope again.

One person moving forward.

Then another. And another.

That's how change happens.

World Homeless Day × World Mental Health Day

On 10 October, we mark World Homeless Day and World Mental Health Day.

It's a chance to remember that behind every statistic is a person with a story, hopes and a future worth fighting for.

We may not know what it feels like to experience homelessness ourselves.

But we can choose empathy, compassion and action.

Will you stand with us?

Sign up for our newsletter and pledge to stand with us.

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St James Care

Fahim Miah — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 07:48:08 +0000

Care Homes: Supporting People Beyond Homelessness

For some people, moving away from homelessness is only the beginning of their journey towards stability.

At the Society of St James (SSJ), we understand that overcoming homelessness does not always mean that someone no longer needs support. For many vulnerable adults, there can be ongoing challenges linked to complex needs, mental health difficulties, alcohol dependency, drug misuse and other long-term circumstances.

That is why our Care Homes service provides a safe, supportive environment where people can continue to receive the care they need while building confidence, independence and a greater sense of stability.

Care that goes beyond accommodation

Through many years of providing accommodation, supported housing and outreach services across Southampton and Hampshire, SSJ recognised that some people need continued, specialist support long after they have moved away from homelessness.

For these individuals, simply having somewhere to live is not always enough.

Our Care Homes provide more than accommodation. They offer a stable environment where people can access tailored day-to-day support, develop life skills and work towards personal goals at a pace that is right for them.

Every person we support has their own experiences, needs and ambitions. Our approach reflects this, with support focused around the individual rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.

Building confidence and independence

Every day provides an opportunity to make progress.

Whether that means developing everyday skills, becoming more confident in making decisions, engaging with health and wellbeing support or taking part in activities within the community, small steps can make a significant difference.

Our teams work alongside residents to encourage independence while providing reassurance and support when it is needed.

Over time, these steps can help people regain confidence, strengthen their sense of purpose and look towards the future with greater optimism.

Creating a community

A supportive home is about more than practical care. It is also about creating an environment where people feel respected, listened to and valued.

Our Care Homes aim to provide a sense of community and belonging, helping residents build positive relationships and take part in activities that support their wellbeing and interests.

From social activities and creative sessions to opportunities to spend time outdoors and connect with others, these experiences can help reduce isolation and encourage people to feel more connected to their community.

Supporting people with complex needs

Many of the people we support have experienced significant challenges throughout their lives. Some may have multiple or complex needs that require ongoing support and coordination with other services.

Our care teams work to understand each individual's circumstances and provide consistent, person-centred support.

Where appropriate, this can involve working alongside health and social care professionals and other organisations to help ensure people receive the right support.

By providing stable care within a supportive environment, our service can also help reduce avoidable pressure on local healthcare and other public services.

Looking towards a brighter future

At SSJ, we believe that someone's circumstances do not have to define their future.

Our Care Homes provide people with the time, stability and support they need to continue moving forward. Progress may look different for everyone, but every achievement matters - from gaining confidence in everyday tasks to developing new interests, building relationships and feeling more independent.

Because care does not stop when someone leaves homelessness behind.

For some people, it is the next important step in their journey.

The Society of St James is committed to supporting people through every stage of that journey - helping people find stability, rebuild confidence and create a future they can look forward to.

How Art Helped Someone Find Peace From Addiction

Lucy Potts — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 13:20:45 +0000

After fighting addiction for 25 years, a person who we support describes how art has helped them to move past addiction and find hope. After years of relapse, the individual found abstinence, peace of mind and calmness through art. Today we showcase their work, and how using their creativity, through drawing portraits, has helped them to manage their emotions and in a constructive and safe way. They are now celebrating 8 months sober.

Finding Hope and Healing Through Art

Recovery can be a difficult journey, often filled with challenges, change and the need to find new ways to cope with difficult emotions. For many people, creative activities can provide a positive outlet and an opportunity to focus on something constructive.

One person supported by the Society of St James has found that art has become an important part of their recovery journey.

Discovering a Creative Outlet

After experiencing many years of addiction and periods of instability, they were introduced to drawing and creative activities during their time in treatment.

What began as an activity soon became something much more meaningful, providing a sense of calm, focus and a safe way to express emotions.

Art can offer the opportunity to slow down and become fully absorbed in the creative process. For this individual, drawing has become a therapeutic outlet and an important way to manage difficult feelings.

Using Art to Support Recovery

Recovery is about finding new ways to spend time, manage emotions and build positive routines. Creative activities can provide a constructive outlet, helping people to focus their energy on something meaningful.

For this individual, drawing helps to avoid boredom while providing a positive way to process and express emotions. By focusing on creating portraits, they can become immersed in the process and channel their thoughts and feelings into their work.

Looking Towards the Future

Today, portrait drawing has become a particular passion and an important part of their recovery journey.

Now celebrating eight months in recovery, they are looking towards the future with positivity and hope. While recovery is an ongoing journey, finding a passion for art has helped create a sense of purpose, peace and something positive to focus on each day.

At the Society of St James, we know that recovery is about more than overcoming addiction. It can also be about rebuilding confidence, discovering new interests and finding opportunities to create a positive future.

Through creativity, support and determination, stories like this show that hope can be found in many different places. Sometimes, discovering a new passion can be the beginning of a new chapter.

To find out more about the ways that the Society of St James supports people to find new interests, reignite old passions and gain life skills through creative outlets, follow this link for The SSJ Academy.

Community Day Rehab: Supporting those in Need

Fahim Miah — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 13:10:58 +0000

What is Community Day Rehab?

The Society of St James and Inclusion (part of Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust) are here to support and guide people through a drug and alcohol recovery journey. At CDR there is a belief that no one is broken or needs fixing, but as humans we can, and do, get stuck in repetitive patterns of unhelpful behaviour. These take us away from the life that we want to live. CDR has a structured 8-week programme, that is abstinence based, and we work alongside clients during weekdays - Monday to Friday, 9am-3.30pm.

CDR also has a range of community groups which run six days a week, that have similar content, but don't require complete abstinence. These are for people who might not be ready for the full programme or have other commitments.

How the service helps?

We offer trauma-informed interventions both in person and online via Zoom (in the evening). They include structured behaviour change groups, yoga, acupuncture, mindfulness, a women’s group, a Sunday group, breath work & self-compassion based practices plus a counselling service.

These can help to:

Notice the patterns that keep you stuck.
Learn new skills such as soothing your central nervous system to help handle difficult thoughts, feelings, anxieties, boredom and sleep disorders.
Identify & connect with who and what is important to you.
Start taking steps towards creating the life you want based on these values.

At Community Day Rehab it’s understood how difficult this work can be, but the service has supported many people to change their lives for the better.

2026 Feedback from Sue Atkins - Senior Sister, Alcohol Specialist Nurse Service, Queen Alexandra Hospital, Portsmouth

For many patients referred to the ASNS it is the first time that alcohol has either been addressed and identified as contributing to their illness, or for other patients their Alcohol Misuse Disorder has had an impact on their lives for many years and resulted in repeated alcohol-related admissions to QAH. CDR is certainly our go-to service within SSJ for patients requiring either an inpatient or outpatient detoxification programme. The service mirrors the intensity of the ASNS treatment programme.

All referrals, either directly or via the Hub, are actioned very quickly, capturing the teachable moment. The CDR team are very happy to contact patients directly to provide an overview of the service and we feel this approach helps engage patients. As a team, we feel that the CDR timetables are invaluable and patients consistently provide positive feedback about them. CDR was instrumental in starting up our QAH Alcohol Behaviour Change Group. This is the envy of many hospitals around the country, as is the philosophy of Community Day Rehab as an alternative to residential rehabilitation.

Positive Client Feedback (2026 Satisfaction Surveys)

"Having acupuncture sessions massively reduces my cravings and anxiety. I feel more calm and relaxed for several days afterwards. It helps me sleep better and has helped my depression."

"Very informative. I feel very safe and respected. Supportive."

"The attitude of the staff and fellow service users. You feel welcome and it's a safe, non-judgemental space where it's easy to share if you wish."

"Calm. Really friendly. Wonderful. Welcoming. Nice food."

"CDR is going well. There should be more places like this."

"Positive, made to feel welcome, and was allocated a key worker on day one."

"Starting with breathwork and mindfulness every morning sets you up for the day. Repetition of daily modules helps you remember."

Contact Us

If you would like to speak to a member of our team, please call us on:

Phone: 02392 861423

Email: onlinerecovery@ssj.org.uk

Location: 69 Kingston Road, Portsmouth, PO2 7DX

Visit the website:

https://www.portsmouthrecovery.org/how-we-help/

Hampshire Recovery Sports Day

Lucy Potts — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 10:24:57 +0000

Mark your calendars for Saturday, 19th September 2026, as we come together to celebrate Recovery Month!

Brought to you by Inclusion, Recovery Connections Hampshire, the Society of St James, Intuitive Thinking Skills, B.More, Steps Within, and Ambition Portsmouth, this free event brings together local recovery organisations, and individuals from across Hampshire for a day centered on community, connection, and friendly competition.

Event schedule & highlights

Recovery walk: 9:30 AM Meet at St Mary's Church, Portsmouth. (walk starts promptly at 10:00 AM and heads toward the Mountbatten Centre).

Fun team games: Lighthearted sports, sack races, and physical challenges.

Wellbeing zone: A dedicated space to unwind, reflect, and recharge.

Team quiz challenge: Put your collective brainpower to the test.

Celebration & presentations: Honoring personal journeys, milestones, and community strength.

Whether you are jumping into the games, cheering from the sidelines, or simply looking to connect with others, everyone is warmly invited. It’s a fantastic opportunity to build new relationships, boost your wellbeing, and celebrate the hope and transformation that recovery brings.

Come join the fun, bring your energy, and let's celebrate together! Scan the QR code on the poster to register your team, or contact 07497879841 / lynsay.railtion@recoveryconnections.org.uk for details.

Making Hep C History in Portsmouth

Society St James — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 09:45:26 +0000

World Hepatitis Day provides an opportunity to celebrate a significant milestone for Portsmouth. Through the dedication of partner organisations, frontline teams and people with lived experience, the city has achieved hepatitis C micro-elimination within its adult drug and alcohol treatment service.

This achievement is about much more than statistics. It reflects months of partnership working to reach people who may have experienced homelessness, trauma, poor health or barriers to accessing healthcare. By offering testing in trusted settings and supporting people quickly into treatment, partners have helped improve health outcomes while reducing inequalities.

Although this milestone is worth celebrating, the work continues. Sustaining micro-elimination means continuing to offer testing, maintaining awareness and ensuring everyone who could benefit from treatment has the opportunity to receive it. Together, we are committed to keeping Hep C history in Portsmouth.

About the partnership

The Portsmouth Hepatitis C Micro-elimination Programme has been delivered through partnership working between:

Inclusion (part of Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust)
The Society of St James
Hep C U Later, an initiative of the NHS Addictions Provider Alliance
The Hepatitis C Trust
Portsmouth City Council
Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust
NHS England

Key facts

Partnership established: July 2025
Hepatitis C micro-elimination achieved: 16 July 2026
More than 650 hepatitis C tests completed.
Around 25 people diagnosed with active hepatitis C.
All but three commenced treatment.
The programme focused on increasing access to testing and treatment for people accessing Portsmouth’s adult drug and alcohol treatment service.

About hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a blood-borne virus that affects the liver. Many people experience no symptoms until the disease has progressed, but it can now usually be cured with a short course of antiviral medication if diagnosed early.

About hepatitis C micro-elimination

Micro-elimination is the achievement of eliminating hepatitis C within a defined population or service through systematic testing, rapid access to treatment and ongoing follow-up. It contributes to England’s wider ambition to eliminate hepatitis C as a public health threat. Further information here: What does hepatitis C micro-elimination in drug services mean? – HEP C U Later

How Accommodation Based Support Empowers the Journey Out of Homelessness

Fahim Miah — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 14:58:00 +0000

The path to independent living isn’t always a straight line; more often than not, it is a journey taken one steady step at a time. Within our mission to tackle homelessness, the Accommodation Based Support service serves as a vital bridge for individuals transitioning toward long-term stability.

Operating across eight properties in Southampton, this service provides 60 dedicated bed spaces designed to help people find their footing in a safe, structured environment.

All the support to our clients is person - centered, led by the client, and trauma-informed. Also, the support is based on their needs, and is led by them day to day with as much or as little support as they would like. Offering them support with appointments, budgeting, cooking, shopping, and whatever their needs may be.

The Next Stage in the Journey: What is "Step-Down" Support?

Many of the clients who enter our accommodation-Based Support service are coming directly from intensive, high-support services.

Think of it as a "step-down" phase. When someone has experienced long-term homelessness or trauma, jumping straight into a completely independent tenancy can feel overwhelming and, at times, unsustainable. This service acts as the crucial next stage in their journey - offering a bit more freedom than intensive crisis care, but keeping a strong safety net firmly in place.

Led by the Individual, Guided by Care

No two journeys are identical, which is why our approach to support is entirely person-centered and client-led.

What does that mean in practice? It means our clients are in the driver's seat. Our teams meet individuals exactly where they are, tailoring day-to-day assistance to be as comprehensive or as hands-off as they prefer.

Furthermore, our care is strictly trauma-informed. We understand that the obstacles our clients face are often rooted in deeply challenging past experiences. By fostering an environment of safety, trust, and choice, we ensure that healing and independence go hand in hand.

Building the Practical Skills for Lifelong Success

True independence is built on a foundation of practical life skills. To ensure our clients are fully prepared to maintain their own tenancies in the future, we work alongside them to tackle day-to-day tasks that many take for granted.

Depending on what an individual needs on any given day, our team is there to help with:

Budgeting and Money Management: Learning how to stretch an income, pay bills, and prioritize spending.
Health and Wellbeing: Navigating the healthcare system and attending important appointments.
Daily Living Skills: Mastering cooking, grocery shopping, and managing a household.

Ultimately, our goal isn't just to provide a temporary roof over someone's head - it is to equip them with the tools, confidence, and resilience they need to thrive independently for the rest of their lives.

What Causes Homelessness in the UK? 10 Common Reasons People Become Homeless

Fahim Miah — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:59:15 +0000

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 Homelessness?

A person may be considered homeless if they do not have a safe or secure place to live. This includes people staying in temporary accommodation, hostels, or with friends and family.

10 Common Causes of Homelessness in the UK

1. Lack of Affordable Housing

A shortage of affordable homes is one of the leading causes of homelessness in the UK. Rising rents and limited housing availability can make it difficult for people on lower incomes to secure stable accommodation.

2. Poverty

People experiencing poverty are more vulnerable to homelessness. When income does not cover essential living costs, keeping up with rent and household bills can become increasingly difficult.

3. Unemployment

Losing a job or experiencing a significant reduction in income can place people at risk of losing their homes, particularly if they have limited savings.

4. Relationship Breakdown

Family disputes, separation, divorce, or being asked to leave the family home can all contribute to homelessness.

5. Domestic Abuse

Many people become homeless after leaving an unsafe home. Domestic abuse is recognised as a significant cause of homelessness, particularly among women and children.

6. Eviction

People may become homeless if they are evicted from rented accommodation and cannot find suitable alternative housing.

7. Mental Health Challenges

Mental health difficulties can affect a person's ability to maintain housing, employment, and relationships. Homelessness can also have a negative impact on mental wellbeing.

8. Substance Misuse

Substance misuse can contribute to housing instability for some people. However, it is important to recognise that addiction may also develop as a result of the trauma and stress associated with homelessness.

9. Leaving Institutions

People leaving prison, hospital, care, or the armed forces may face housing difficulties if suitable accommodation is not arranged before they leave.

10. Social Exclusion and Discrimination

Some groups face additional barriers when accessing housing, employment, and support services, increasing their risk of homelessness

At The Society of St James:

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 homelessness.

What Is Rough Sleeping? Understanding the Difference Between Rough Sleeping and Homelessness

Fahim Miah — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:32:14 +0000

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.

What Is Rough Sleeping?

It is someone who has no access to safe, stable accommodation and spends the night in public spaces or other unsuitable locations.

Rough sleeping is often the most visible form of homelessness, but it represents only a portion of the wider homeless population.

Homelessness vs Rough Sleeping

When comparing homelessness vs rough sleeping, it's important to recognise that not everyone experiencing homelessness sleeps rough.

A person may be considered homeless if they:

Are staying in temporary accommodation or emergency shelters
Are sofa surfing with friends or family
Live in hostels or supported housing
Face imminent eviction with nowhere else to go
Live in accommodation that is unsafe or unsuitable

However, a rough sleeper is specifically someone sleeping outside or in places not intended for living.

Key Difference

Homelessness is a broad term covering anyone without a secure, permanent home.
Rough sleeping is a specific form of homelessness where a person sleeps outdoors or in unsuitable locations.

This means that while all rough sleepers are homeless, not all homeless people are rough sleepers.

Why Understanding Rough Sleeping Matters

People who are rough sleeping often face increased risks to their physical and mental health. Exposure to harsh weather, lack of access to healthcare, personal safety concerns, and social isolation can make it difficult to move forward without support.

Recognising the signs of rough sleeping helps communities, charities, and local services provide timely assistance and connect individuals with accommodation, healthcare, and long term support.

Supporting People Experiencing Rough Sleeping

Addressing rough sleeping requires more than simply providing shelter. Many individuals need ongoing support with housing, employment, health services, financial difficulties, and rebuilding social connections.

By understanding the difference between homelessness and rough sleeping, we can better appreciate the challenges people face and help ensure support reaches those who need it most.