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About Single Homeless Project

We began in 1975 when a group of six homeless men in London teamed up to create the change they wanted to see. An end to rough sleeping and the cold, hard floors of warehouses – and a city where everyone has a place to call home and the chance to live a fulfilling life.

Today, we are the largest homeless charity dedicated to helping Londoners in crisis. Every year, we help over 10,000 Londoners to leave homelessness behind, to be seen, to be heard, and find a place to call home.

SHP STORIES

Who We Help

Every year, SHP supports thousands of Londoners who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. We’re proud to stand alongside each person on their journey toward stability, independence and hope. Explore some of their stories to see the real impact your support makes.

AmY's Story

The power of a haircut, for Amy

Amy slept rough across different parts of London, on and off, for nearly 20 years. During that time, she experienced horrific trauma and was moved between temporary accommodation that didn’t meet her specific needs. 

Everything changed when she found SHP, and we were so relieved she did. 

“I wasn't able to accept support at the start. I was just like, yeah, arrange a meeting, and then I just wouldn't go. Then I had this feeling, like, now’s the time.” 

Amy finally found some peace - a sense of safety and stability in one of our specialist women-only hostels earlier this year.

Amy almost immediately received a Haircut & Blowdry and began to feel herself again. She started showing up to appointments and began receiving bespoke support for her mental health and addiction. She expressed how much she'd love to get into boxing, how empowering it'd make her feel after the abhorrent abuse she'd experienced.

So, Amy was provided with a Boxing Bundle. Following the visit, now upbeat, motivated, and grounded, she shared her goal of one day working in emergency supported housing for women experiencing domestic violence - a full circle moment and one which, alongside the incredible support of Single Homeless Project, is down to the kindness of people like you reminding her there's good in the world.

Buy a gift for a Londoner like Amy

Stacey's* story

Stacey's* need for an urgent health check

TW: sexual abuse

Stacey’s* life began with unimaginable trauma. She experienced abuse, a turbulent family home, and exposure to addiction from a young age.

“I was sexually abused by my eldest brother when I was seven. I used to go to bed and pray I’d die in my sleep. No seven-year-old should think like that."

Stacey became homeless as a teenager and had nowhere to turn. Seeking safety in strangers, she found herself relying upon a series of abusive relationships.

When she was referred to us at the Single Homeless Project, she was in desperate need of an Urgent Physical & Mental Health Check. Receiving it could well have been life-saving, and led Stacey to believe she could recover.

Stacey’s journey isn’t over yet, but with the support of those who care, she is carving out a new path. It’s been a hard road, but she’s learning to believe in herself again each day.

*Stacey's name has been changed to protect her identity

Buy a gift for a Londoner like Stacey*

Support homeless Londoners

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Single Homeless Project a registered charity?

Yes, the Single Homeless project helps over 10,000 Londoners experiencing homelessness each year and has operated since 1975. The registered charity number is 287779, corroborated on the UK Government's website here.

Who are Single Homeless Project?

The Single Homeless Project began in 1975 when a group of six homeless Londoners teamed up to create the change they wanted to see. An end to rough sleeping – and a city where everyone has a place to call home and the chance to live a fulfilling life.

Today, Single Homeless Project are the largest homeless charity in London. The charity is dedicated to helping Londoners in crisis. Every year, we help over 10,000 Londoners leave homelessness behind, to be seen, to be heard, and to find a place to call home through a variety of means, such as supported accommodation, therapy, health programmes, financial literacy, sport, art, music and employment help, training opportunities and education. We operate in all 32 London boroughs and have 79 supported accommodation hostels.

Homelessness is indeed complex but with the right client-centred holistic approach people can rebuild their lives, regain independence, and feel part of their community again. That's what we focus on achieving!

Why is Single Homeless Project "London's leading homeless charity"?

Single Homeless Project is the ONLY homeless charity which operates in all 32 London boroughs, with a model specific to London (developed for over 50 years). To find out more, visit SHP's website.

Is my purchase an actual gift?

Yes, your purchase will ensure someone experiencing homelessness is able to receive products and services necessary to their bespoke needs. You donate the average price of the listed product or service as a "virtual gift", and we deliver the real things across London on (or for some gifts, around) Christmas Day!

We are London's leading homeless charity. We have been operating in London for over 50 years, and have services present in all 32 boroughs. With the support of people like you, we support thousands of Londoners each year. Our registered charity number is 287779.

For any more information, please refer to the 'How it works' section at the footer or scroll down to submit your question.

What is the best homeless charity to give to?

All homeless charities do vital work either on a local or national scale. Single Homeless Project has developed a model of support specific to what homeless Londoners need, assisting over 10,000 people each year and operating in all 32 boroughs of London - the only homeless charity to do so. Where you put your money is your choice, but Single Homeless Project are in an incredibly unique position to distribute your generosity and kindness.

How does Single Homeless Project fund its work?

Thanks to generous donors like you! Your support allows us to deliver life-changing services across London.

I'm in! But why should I leave a message of support?

Homelessness is a particularly challenging, lonely and dangerous experience for our clients. Making them feel less alone helps them on their journey - especially during Christmas.

That's why we ask you to leave a message of support with your gift - these messages really do make a huge difference, but they are not compulsory. Please consider adding on a Christmas card for £1, so your message is presented in an extra-special way. Sadly, the majority of our clients won't receive a card this year otherwise.

Now I'd like to support someone on a more regular basis, how do I do that?

The most impactful way to support a client on a more regular basis is to set up a regular monthly donation via the form here.

Never think your contribution is too small to make a difference - it isn't.

Have a question?

Get in touch to find out more about how you can help.