World Homeless Day 2024
Today, on World Homeless Day, we are highlighting the vital work being done throughout Hillcrest Futures to support homeless individuals facing complex challenges. We also share a testimonial from our North Grimsby service to show how our services help improve people’s lives.
Homelessness and Harm Reduction article
Our Harm Reduction Development Officer, Nadine Kelly has written an article examining the complex relationship between homelessness and key societal issues, focusing on the intersecting challenges of substance use, mental health, and housing access.
Drawing on data and reports from key Scottish and UK organisations, the article highlights the increased risks faced by homeless individuals, particularly in relation to substance use, mental health crises, and trauma.
It also discusses Hillcrest Futures’ approach to addressing these issues through harm reduction, trauma-informed care and person-centred support, while advocating for policy reform and greater systemic support.
Click here to read the article in full.
Gordon’s experience of homelessness
Gordon from our North Grimsby service in Arbroath tells us about his experience of becoming homeless and how it affected his health.
“I moved into North Grimsby in December last year after my friend passed away as I had to leave the flat we shared together. This affected me a lot as at 58 years old you don’t expect to be homeless. I was drinking heavily to help cope with the loss of my friend and my health was deteriorating.
“The staff at North Grimsby have been great. They’ve helped me a lot since I’ve moved in, they got me registered with a GP and in touch with Occupational Therapy to get me aids to help my mobility. They’ve put me in touch with other services and I now have a social worker.
“Staff help me every day to look after myself and my flat. When I can’t manage to do things for myself staff will do things for me. Anything I ask them to do is never too much trouble and I can have a laugh and a joke with them, even about the football.
“I couldn’t ask for a better bunch of staff. Being at North Grimsby has helped me get some confidence back and I feel safe at North Grimsby as I know staff are always there to help.”
Gordon is pictured below with his support staff Louise Law and Rick Hughes.
