Homelessness on rise in Kent: Catching Lives sees increase in demand for services

Catching Lives, an independent charity aimed at supporting the rough sleepers, homeless, and vulnerably housed in Canterbury and East Kent, has reported a significant increase in the number of people seeking its services.

According to Graeme Solly, the Project Leader at Catching Lives, the charity worked with 144 different individuals in March 2023, compared to 110 people in February. Additionally, the total visits to the charity’s Canterbury Open Centre increased from 847 in February to 957 in March.

We recently found out that homelessness is on the rise in Kent from the charity ‘shelter’ who predicted figures are going to worsen… And unfortunately it appears they were correct.

This rise in demand for services is concerning and highlights the ongoing issue of homelessness in Kent. Catching Lives aims to provide immediate respite to those who have fallen through the gaps in society and feel they have nowhere else to turn. The charity’s vision is of a society where everyone is included, and all, no matter how disadvantaged, can make a contribution.

However, as the number of people seeking Catching Lives’ services increases, it is clear that more needs to be done to address the root causes of homelessness and provide long-term solutions…

Catching Lives works to end the harm caused by homelessness, rough sleeping, and insecure housing. The charity not only offers immediate respite at its project in Canterbury but also works with clients to help them tackle any issues they may have, get access to suitable accommodation, and find motivation to take steps towards personal recovery and independent living.

In addition to its work at the Canterbury Open Centre, Catching Lives also undertakes outreach and sustainment work to support those who cannot access the centre, helping them avoid becoming homeless.