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Charities urge people to seek support early amid fears of worsening homelessness crisis
Increasing numbers of people are at risk of becoming homeless imminently, warn charity bosses who have expressed growing concern about the economic victims of the pandemic.
Representatives from Caring in Bristol, CHAS Bristol housing advice service and the ACFA advice centre have joined forces to launch a free Housing Support Handbook – meant to act as a one-stop-shop of guidance and advice – as the prospect of an eviction crisis looms.
They are urging those facing eviction or debt to seek help as soon as possible and the pocket-sized guide provides an up-to-date directory for anyone with money worries or housing issues in Bristol, with information on matters such as accommodation, finance, employment, immigration and food provision.
is needed now More than ever
Following pressure from charities and politicians, including the MP for Bristol West Thangam Debbonaire, the Government announced a last minute extension on the eviction ban for another four weeks.
But concerns remain amid fears the reprieve has only delayed the consequences of the current economic situation and housing insecurity by a month.
Outlining the scale of the situation, Caring in Bristol director Ben Richardson said: “Whilst we welcome the last minute extension of the eviction ban, we are still concerned about how this uncertainty is affecting the lives of hundreds of thousands of renters.
“Echoing the warnings from national charities Shelter, and Crisis we’re incredibly concerned about the economic victims of this crisis and the terrifying potential for mass Covid-19 evictions when the ban lifts.
“It would be unforgivable if people hit by the economic crisis in Bristol did not get the support they deserve in the coming months. As a homelessness charity we also have prevention at our core and this handbook and partnership attest to that. Our plea to everyone who’s fearful of losing their home is to seek support early.”
With the furlough scheme winding down, thousands in the city are at risk of unemployment and could, therefore, be left unable to pay their rent. Paired with the end of the ban on evictions, Shelter predicts 230,000 renters are at risk of ‘Covid-eviction’ and predicts services in the city will face increasing strain.
CHAS director Charlotte Eddisford says the impact of Covid-19 on people’s housing security is already evident locally and demand for housing is soaring.
“Our service, and others like ours, can have the greatest impact on people’s lives when involved at the earliest possible stage,” she said.
“This handbook offers a timely and comprehensive guide to anyone experiencing issues for the first time, and those still struggling with problems pre-dating Covid-19. If you know of anyone in your family, social network or community who is struggling, please encourage them to contact a local advice agency to get their issues resolved now.”
The Housing Support Handbook aims to provide a one-stop-shop source of information and advice – photo by Owain Astles
Caring in Bristol handbook project coordinator Jamie Smith added: “Covid-19 has shaken society and left a lot of people in a precarious situation they wouldn’t have imagined being in at the start of the year. Bristol has a great network of advice agencies that offer free, expert, and bespoke advice – the handbook aims to connect these agencies with those who need their support. Please seek the support you need and deserve.”
ACFA project manager Karen Bowers reiterated the message that “people aren’t alone in these very challenging times”.
Copies of the Housing Support Handbook are available for services in touch with those who will need this support and advice. A free digital copy is downloadable via www.caringinbristol.co.uk/project/housing-support-handbook/.
Main photo by Owain Astles
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