Peterborough Soup Kitchen Declares Itself a “Fifth Emergency Service” Amid Escalating Homelessness

A charitable organization operating a soup kitchen has stated it functions akin to a “fifth emergency service” due to an increase in individuals experiencing homelessness within a particular city. Peterborough Soup Kitchen reported providing hot meals and beverages to approximately 100 individuals nightly from its mobile serving unit. Data from Peterborough City Council indicates a 40% increase in individuals identifying as homeless, moving from an average of 51 per week in the 2021-22 period to 70 per week in 2023-24. A separate charity assisting homeless individuals noted an uptick in women utilizing its provisions as homelessness expanded throughout the city. Beccy Tyler, secretary for Peterborough Soup Kitchen, an organization dedicated to aiding disadvantaged and homeless people, commented: “We are like a fifth emergency service to them. “We’re that level of support they need and we will continue to do this every day, we just need more help.” The Light Project Peterborough, another entity providing support to homeless individuals in the city, confirmed that 53 new people have sought its assistance during the current month. Steven Pettican, CEO of The Light Project Peterborough, observed an increase in the number of women seeking aid from the charity over the last six months. He conveyed to the BBC: “It’s heart-breaking to hear some of those stories. “People are trying hard to break free from some of the challenges they are facing and want to move forward; sometimes it’s tough.” Jessica, aged 31, became a volunteer at the charity following her own experience with homelessness. She expressed the importance of assisting others facing circumstances akin to her own. She mentioned lacking the bravery to inform her family about her predicament, having maintained independence since childhood. “It’s important [volunteering] because I can help people in the same situation as me every day…it makes me feel well to give them the hope given to me,” Jessica stated. The Light Project reported assisting approximately 482 individuals in securing safe accommodation since January. An increased number of individuals have also sought assistance from the council; however, due to stringent budgetary constraints, the council indicated it must assess all available alternatives and its capacity with existing funds. Updates on Peterborough news are available via BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is accessible.