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February – March 2025 : Time READ ONLINE

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The gift of time

February 01 2025
Emdad (left) distributing the Pavement in London. © Emdad Rahman Emdad (left) distributing the Pavement in London. © Emdad Rahman

Time can be a precious commodity. Spent well it can have a massive impact on people. Here’s why some time and care will go a long way with the homeless community, by Emdad Rahman

Homelessness remains a pressing issue in the UK, with time playing a pivotal role in shaping the lives of those on the streets. The longer individuals endure homelessness, the more profound the impact on their physical and mental health, often leading to a shortened lifespan.
Recent statistics highlight the urgency of addressing this crisis.

In the financial year 2023-24, CHAIN recorded 11,993 individuals sleeping rough in London, marking a 19% increase from the previous year and a 58% rise over the past decade.  Nationally, the situation mirrors a very alarming trend. During the month of June 2024, an estimated 8,309 people were sleeping rough across England, representing a 13% increase since March 2024 and a 15% rise compared to June 2023.

Through my experience of spending time with several projects in Hackney and outreach services across London and the north, I’ve witnessed firsthand how time exacerbates the challenges faced by homeless individuals. Prolonged exposure to the streets accelerates the deterioration of health, with limited access to medical care, nutritious food and safe shelter. This lifestyle precipitates chronic illnesses, mental health disorders and a general decline in wellbeing.

All homeless people can experience these hardships, though the nature of their challenges can be quite different. Women, for instance, may face increased vulnerability to violence and exploitation, while men might encounter higher rates of substance abuse.

Regardless of gender, the absence of timely support and opportunities leads to a cycle of despair and marginalisation.

Time, when invested positively, can serve as a catalyst for change. Community initiatives supported by generous local school kitchens I work with exemplify this transformative power. Through the support of staff and pupils these programmes offer individuals experiencing homelessness a chance to engage in structured activities, fostering a sense of belonging and normalcy. Such interactions provide more than just temporary relief: they rekindle hope and motivation, essential components for reintegration into society.

Football clubs often forget, or neglect the positive impact they can have on their local community. Not Leyton Orient, the club’s Leyton Orient Trust runs an array of initiatives, including mental health treatment and recovery programmes like Coping through Football. These have been instrumental in supporting vulnerable populations. Additionally, the club’s involvement in food bank services addresses immediate needs, ensuring that individuals have access to basic necessities.

The dawn of a new year symbolises hope and the possibility of change. It is a new year and a new beginning for many people determined to bring about positive changes in their lives. For those experiencing homelessness, it can mark the beginning of a journey towards stability.

Society’s role is crucial in this transition. By dedicating time to volunteer, advocate, or support initiatives aimed at alleviating homelessness, we contribute to creating pathways out of destitution.

Time is an invaluable resource and one of the greatest gifts we have. For individuals on the streets, the time others invest in listening, supporting and providing opportunities can be life-changing. It’s through the collective investment of time that we can address the root causes of homelessness, offer meaningful support and, ultimately, restore dignity to those affected.

So while the statistics paint a grim picture, they also underscore the importance of timely intervention and sustained support. As we step into the new year, let us recognise the profound impact our time can have on the lives of others – especially those facing the harsh realities of homelessness.

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February – March 2025 : Time

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