At Selwood Housing, we believe that a safe, affordable, and secure home isn’t just shelter; it’s the foundation for dignity, stability, health and opportunity. This World Homeless day, we’re amplifying the call to end homelessness and reflecting on the progress, challenges, and urgent needs facing our communities in Wiltshire, Somerset and Bath & North East Somerset.
The reality of homelessness
Homelessness is complex, often triggered or worsened by stressful events such as job loss, mental health challenges, domestic abuse, or poverty. In the UK the scale is staggering, with more than 300,000 people estimated to be without a home, including 140,000 children.
The reasons behind homelessness are varied. Some people find themselves with nowhere to go after leaving care, the armed services or prison, while others are forced to flee violent or abusive relationships. Many simply cannot afford rising private rent costs.
Homelessness does not look the same for every person. For some, it means rough sleeping on the streets; for others, it’s staying in hostels or shelters, seeking emergency housing, couch-surfing, living in overcrowded conditions, or spending time in temporary or supported accommodation.
Homelessness remains a significant challenge across the UK. In 2024, 1,611 people died while homeless, a 9% increase from the previous year. That equates to more than 4 people dying every day last year whilst experiencing homelessness. The local authority plays a crucial role in providing support for those in need and we work closely with partner agencies, such as Wiltshire Council, who offer emergency housing advice and rough sleeping outreach.
At Selwood Housing, we are striving to be part of the solution. Our commitment is to offer safe, secure, and affordable homes wherever possible. Selwood Housing provides over 7,200 secure tenancies across Wiltshire and Somerset, ensuring our customers have access to a responsive repairs service, support from neighbourhood and tenancy sustainment teams and most importantly, a safe place to call home. But we want to do more, with an ambitious programme to build 1,700 more homes by 2034.
Supporting the cause
For those experiencing homelessness, there’s no ‘off switch’. It is a reality that follows them every hour, every day. For the last two years, our group development director, Paul Walsh, has committed to fundraising for the local charity Doorway, by participating in their annual Sleep Out event. With no tents, heating or firm shelter, this is always an uncomfortable night. Paul said:
“I’ve supported the Doorway Sleep Out for the last two years. The first year it didn’t stop raining. But it’s the smallest of small glimpses into what it must be like to be homeless. Both times, apart from the exposure and the rain, what strikes me is the complete lack of any safety, privacy or access to the basics. If you got to the toilet, everything you own must go with you. And what separates you from the world is a bit of tarpaulin and cardboard.
I always find myself worrying about charging my phone, since I rely on my mobile for just about everything. And because everything is on a phone, when you’re on the street, how do you charge it? How can anyone find you? Everything is a battle. There is no comfort, safety, or ease.
That’s why I am so proud to work for Selwood Housing. I know my job every day is to deliver local, affordable homes that go to people here in housing need. There are thousands of families who do not have a secure, local or affordable home. That’s why I tell my daughters I have one of the best jobs going.”
Help and support
World Homeless day is a time to act. If you want to help those in need, you could consider volunteering with local food banks or outreach programmes or fundraising for local charities.
If you, or someone you know is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, please see below some resources where help can be found:
- Shelter
- Wiltshire Council Homelessness Services
- Julian House
- StreetLink – for reporting rough sleeping to the Wiltshire Council outreach programme
- Doorway
You can also find support on our website:
