West Berkshire homeless charity launches winter accommodation project to help house 'non-priority' people
Under current laws those who do not present with a mental or physical disability do not qualify as a priority
Local charity West Berkshire Homeless has introduced a new winter initiative to help tackle the growing issue of homelessness among non-priority individuals in the area, coinciding with the rising demand for emergency poverty support seen in recent months.
The charity, which has been a staple in the community for the past seven years, works closely with council outreach teams, landlords and local accommodation providers to address gaps in support for people who do not meet the government’s criteria for priority housing.
The new project will focus on providing temporary accommodation in Bed & Breakfasts or hotels during the winter months for those identified as "non-priority" homeless. That means people who do not have a mental or physical disability. Funds raised through the platform will be matched by Greenham Common Trust to help stretch resources further.
Dedicated support for those falling under the radar
The need for such support is underscored by the cost of living crisis, which has exacerbated financial pressures across West Berkshire and beyond. The charity highlighted the difficulties facing people living on pension incomes, as well as families and individuals whose relationships have broken down due to financial strain.
Erica, representing West Berkshire Homeless, said, “The cost of living crisis puts financial pressures on relationships—whether between young people living with parents or couples—and leads to breakdown. I receive about 12 calls a day from people on the poverty line who struggle to afford heating, food, or both.”
Collaboration with local organisations such as food banks and meal providers like Loose Ends and the Soup Kitchen has enabled West Berkshire Homeless to provide emergency provisions, energy bill support, and advice to those in need. However, the lack of consistent funds for temporary accommodation, crucial for supporting non-priority homeless individuals, remains a challenge.
Bridging the gap for non-priority individuals
The charity’s new project intends to fill a gap in services for this demographic, allowing people to access temporary accommodation until suitable long-term options are available.
Many individuals are often left to fend for themselves as they don't qualify for emergency housing on grounds of vulnerability.
Erica explained that such provisions can be vital for keeping people employed or helping them secure work: "A lack of accommodation is often an automatic barrier to gaining employment; furthermore, for those who are employed, being unhoused can lead to losing their job. By providing temporary housing, we’re assisting individuals in staying on their feet.”
A community effort
Through word of mouth and years of local experience, West Berkshire Homeless continues its mission to support struggling people at risk of falling through the cracks. The campaign on The Good Exchange is part of this broader effort, enabling anyone to contribute to providing urgent support over the winter period.
So far, nearly £20,000 has been raised to help the charity fund a roof over people's heads.
Erica expressed gratitude to the Greenham Common Trust for their match funding initiative and shared the charity's commitment to ensuring people receive the help they need. She also raised concerns about how challenges including rising energy costs, insufficient benefits, and access to technology continue to push individuals toward homelessness.
“The world is quite difficult to live in at the moment,” Erica said, adding that the charity’s befriending team often steps in to assist those who struggle to navigate online systems—especially older people who may have limited digital access at home.
This work is part of the charity’s broader remit not just to support people in finding accommodation but also helping those in poverty navigate everyday challenges.
We have contacted the government for a comment.