This October, during the month of World Homeless Day, we joined other local organisations in Reading town centre to highlight the wide range of support available to people experiencing homelessness or housing difficulties.
Our team spoke with shoppers on Broad Street about the work Launchpad does across Reading to help people who are homeless or at risk of losing their homes.
We were able to share information about our free drop-in service, which is open to everyone three times a week, as well as the wide range of activities and support available through our Work and Life Skills Centre on Cardiff Road. Both services are available without referral, ensuring people can access help when they need it most.
Visitors were interested to learn about our 104 supported accommodation beds for people who have experienced homelessness, and the tailored support packages we provide to help residents rebuild their lives and move towards independence.
No one is left to face homelessness alone. Our support workers help residents navigate a range of challenges, including accessing the correct benefits, engaging with drug and alcohol support services, attending medical appointments, and liaising with agencies such as the probation service, police, social services and Reading Borough Council.
Many visitors were also keen to hear about the Nova Project, which provides a safe, gender and trauma-informed home for 10 women facing multiple disadvantages.
October also saw the launch of our new Young Person’s Project, which provides accommodation and support for people aged 18 to 24 who are experiencing homelessness. The service offers tailored housing-related support for young adults facing complex challenges, helping them develop the skills, confidence and stability needed to move towards independent living.
Alongside our partner organisations, we welcome the Government’s pledge to end rough sleeping and believe long-term investment in support services is essential to give people the best chance of rebuilding their lives, maintaining their own tenancies and achieving lasting independence.
On the same day, Reading Borough Council released a short video showcasing the collaborative work taking place between Launchpad, The Salvation Army, St Mungo’s and the council to support people experiencing homelessness in Reading.
If you are concerned about someone sleeping rough in Reading, please report it through StreetLink, which connects people sleeping rough with local support services that can respond quickly and offer assistance.
You can watch the short film about homelessness services in Reading here: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/19ixP7cbPa/