Bristol Homelessness Charity Reports Increased Demand for Services

A Bristol homelessness charity is issuing a warning that the cost of living crisis persists, evidenced by a continuous increase in demand for its services. The Christian organization inHope, which addresses homelessness, hunger, and addiction, reports a significant rise in individuals “from all sorts of backgrounds” requiring food bank assistance. To address the heightened demand observed over recent years, the charity is appealing for volunteers and donations throughout the winter period. A spokesman for the charity stated, “The cost of living crisis has faded out of the news a little, but it is still really affecting those that find it least easy to cope.” Data from the city council indicates that over 8,600 households in Bristol are experiencing severe food insecurity, defined as having no food remaining. Furthermore, approximately 1,500 homeless families or single individuals are residing in temporary accommodation, a number that has increased by 87% since the onset of the pandemic. Steve Baker, inHope’s development and relationships manager, informed BBC Bristol, stating: “During the pandemic we just saw a huge increase in the number of people needing help and that has not come down since.” He added, “We see not just those who are out of work or living with a disability, but people from all sorts of backgrounds needing to use food banks and that is still quite shocking.” inHope offers hot meals at its Wild Goose Day Centre, alongside laundry facilities, showers, and practical guidance and assistance designed to aid individuals in rebuilding their lives. The charity also operates its Spring of Hope women’s shelter, a food bank, and conducts life skills courses for those undergoing addiction recovery. Mr Baker commented that the persistent high demand, coupled with “a relatively difficult environment for fundraising,” represents a challenge affecting charities throughout Bristol. However, he noted that inHope was “blown away by how generous people were” during its Big Give appeal, which took place from 3 to 10 December. This initiative garnered £62,000 in public donations, subsequently augmented by contributions from philanthropists and foundations, bringing the total to £112,000. For the upcoming year, the charity plans to concentrate on “joining up” its various services related to homelessness, hunger, and addiction. Mr Baker explained, “It is so someone can walk through any of our different doors and be able to access all of that support together – that’s what we are trying to work towards.” The charity consistently requires volunteers. He encouraged, “If people want to volunteer, if they want to use their time meaningfully maybe as a new year’s resolution, then get in touch.” Readers can follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.