A safe place tonight. A way forward tomorrow.
This winter, no one should have to face the cold alone.
Across the country, there is renewed focus on ending rough sleeping by Christmas. At SPEAR, we welcome that ambition – because everyone deserves a safe place to stay. But we also know that getting someone indoors is only the beginning.
A safe place tonight can be the first step towards a way forward tomorrow.
Your donation can help SPEAR be there for people experiencing homelessness across South West London and beyond: reaching people sleeping rough, providing accommodation and support, improving access to vital physical and mental health care, and helping people build the stability, skills and confidence they need for a more independent future.
Why your support matters
Winter can be especially difficult for people experiencing homelessness. Cold weather, poor health and isolation can make an already dangerous situation even harder.
SPEAR’s outreach teams work to find and support people sleeping rough, while our accommodation, tenancy support and health link services help people take practical steps towards lasting independence.
When you give to SPEAR this winter, you help provide:
- A compassionate response when someone is found sleeping rough
- Essentials, warmth and practical support
- Accommodation and tailored support for people’s individual needs and goals
- Help to maintain a tenancy, improve health and wellbeing, and build independent living skills
- Continued support beyond the first night indoors - because recovery and independence take time
What your gift can help do
Your gift will support SPEAR’s vital work with people experiencing homelessness across London.
£30 could help our outreach teams provide practical essentials and support to someone sleeping rough.
£50 could help SPEAR respond flexibly where the need is greatest.
£100 helps to provide emergency accommodation for someone sleeping rough
Chris’s story: finding stability and a new beginning
After losing his accommodation, Chris spent around three weeks sleeping rough near Surbiton Station. Having experienced homelessness before, he knew how difficult life on the streets could be.
When SPEAR’s Outreach Team found him, a simple conversation gave Chris hope. With SPEAR’s support, he moved into accommodation and had a stable base from which to rebuild his life.
Alongside SPEAR staff and health professionals, Chris addressed his wellbeing and later completed a residential rehabilitation programme. A health check at one of SPEAR’s wellbeing days also helped him access vital medical care.
Today, Chris is back in his own supported flat, looking ahead with renewed confidence. He hopes to volunteer with SPEAR and support others facing similar challenges.
Chris’s story shows how a safe place tonight, combined with trusted support, can create a way forward tomorrow.
Together, we can make a difference
No one should face Christmas without a safe place to call home – it’s cold, lonely and dangerous. The Government’s pledge to get everyone in for Christmas is the first step. Your support helps SPEAR provide the welcome, specialist support and long-term housing pathway that make a safe place truly life-changing. Donate today to help someone begin their journey home this Christmas.