Summers impact: Homelessness

Did you know over 271,000 people in England alone are homeless?

This means the homeless are constantly having to deal with the extreme weather conditions in the UK.

In winter the weather can be rainy, windy and freezing cold. The homeless would have to stay in conditions, like a damp sleeping bag, lack of water and shelter. However, as summer has rolled around the UK has been experiencing extreme heat waves.

Although everyone gets excited for the summer holidays, so they can spend time on the beach, hosting events and going on holidays. Summer is one of the most dangerous times for homeless people.

Hot pavements to sleep on, lack of water and less available place to find shelter.

Extreme temperatures can be dangerous for the homeless, as they lack access to food, water and shelter which makes it harder for them to cool down. Exposure to direct sunlight can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Heat stroke can be incredibly dangerous, as a high body temperature can lead to irrevocable damage. It impacts the vital organs in the body, like the brain and kidneys. Heat stroke can also cause seizers, comas and in some cases death.

We at Falcon believe everyone deserves shelter. We offer drop-in services where the homeless, or those who need support can get water, sunscreen and have a safe place to get away. This reduces the amount of people sitting outside in extreme temperatures, which helps keep the homeless safe.

Our Drop In centre services provide open access support for the homeless and those in need in the community.

At Falcon we believe everyone has the right to feel safe and valued. No one should be judged for situations they may be in and should have access to basic needs, advice and support to reach independence.

Hinckley drop in service:

URC Hinckley, The Borough, Hinckley LE10 1NL

Tuesday and Wednesday: 10am-12pm

Leicestershire's Day Centre:

Falcon Centre, 27-31 Pinfold Gate, Loughborough LE11 1BE

Open: Monday – Friday 09.00 – 14.00

Email Matt.taylor@falconsupportservices.org.uk for any enquires.