York homelessness charity hopes for New Year
The Government will decriminalise rough sleeping in 2026
A York charity says it believes attitudes to homelessness are finally changing.
It's as the Government gets ready to scrap a 200 year old law making rough sleeping a criminal offence in the coming months.
Lydia Baldwin, fundraising officer at Restore York, said the charity welcomes the change and hopes it reflects the growing understanding and empathy around homelessness.
“I’ve had a lot more encouraging conversations with people, even where there have been initial assumptions about homelessness and its demographic.
“This is the reality – anyone can be affected. People are starting to have a better appreciation of how close every single one of us is to homelessness.”
Prince William has also spearheaded efforts to bring attention to homelessness in the UK.
Challenges and plans
However demand is increasing for services like Restore York, particularly as pressures such as rising rental costs and the cost-of-living crisis continue to push more people into poverty and homelessness.
To meet growing needs, Restore York has plans to expand its provision by taking on new houses and hiring additional support workers. The charity has also introduced community hubs, which offer spaces for former and current residents to connect through activities such as fitness sessions, creative workshops, and social groups.
“We want to see the community hubs continue to grow, and we want to see more former residents involved, whether that's as peer support workers, leading workshops, or taking on roles like a voluntary maintenance assistant.”
Calls for support
Amid winter pressures and the rising cost of living, Restore York encourages the community to support organisations like theirs, through fundraising, donations, or amplifying awareness about the realities of homelessness.
“People deserve support, especially during winter when it’s cold,” Baldwin added.
Homelessness charities, including Restore York, play a vital role in helping individuals move towards stability and independence, with initiatives like community hubs and housing provision making a tangible difference in residents’ lives.