Homelessness in Northampton
Homelessness can take many forms; rough sleeping is the most dangerous form of homelessness.
According to the latest Government figures in Autumn 2019 there were 28 people sleeping rough in Northampton. This is likely to be an underestimate. We also do not know how many people are currently ‘sofa-surfing’ in Northampton (sleeping in the homes of friends or family when they become homeless).
During the COVID-19 crisis, temporary accommodation was offered in hotels to rough sleepers. The situation is now more complex; some accommodation is still available but rough sleeping is also on the rise in Northampton. In Autumn/Winter 2020, night shelters and similar services may find it a challenge to provide their usual cold-weather beds due to social distancing regulations.
How to help the homeless in Northampton
If you want to help rough sleepers and people who are homeless in Northampton, here are some tips:
- Call 999 if a person is in immediate danger, or you believe they are under 18.
- Alert Streetlink – give as much detail about the individual’s location as you can. Visit www.streetlink.org.uk or download the Streetlink app.
- Stop and talk – loneliness is a big problem. If you see someone rough sleeping, ask if there is anything they would like or need – a hot drink or something warm to eat. Or offer a warm coat, blanket, gloves or a hat.
- Consider making a donation to support Emmaus Village Carlton’s Northampton Rucksack Stomp. This group of formerly-homeless volunteers walk the streets of Northampton every week, offering help to those sleeping rough. Every Wednesday they carrying large rucksacks filled with food and useful supplies to hand out, also stopping to chat and offer advice. The group is always in need of supplies, or you can donate online.
More advice about homelessness and housing is provided by Northampton Borough Council