Be someone for people who have no-one

Fortunately homelessness is something few of us will ever experience: if we did, we’d find that having no home is a symptom of deeper problems caused by a life crisis. The current recession has increased understanding of how homelessness can come about. Domestic violence, family breakdown, mental health problems or unemployment are just some of the reasons.

People who are homeless have often run out of friends and family to whom they can turn. All too quickly they become invisible, stranded in unsafe and insecure accommodation. In these circumstances, feelings of loneliness and helplessness can become overwhelming.

Help to give someone a fresh start

For a homeless person, getting a secure roof over their head is a crucial first step – finding somewhere that is safe, dry and warm. After that, having someone who cares and can offer appropriate support is equally important.

Framework supports over 6,000 homeless and vulnerable people across Nottinghamshire every year but we can’t do it without the additional help of concerned local people like you.

We house people

Framework has a wide range of accommodation for people with diverse needs. Across Nottinghamshire on any one day we house nearly 600 people – including dedicated services for young people, mothers with young children, older people and people with mental health problems.

We support them

We want to help people to stand on their own feet and live independently. To do that, people who are homeless – or at risk of becoming homeless – often need particular support. Among other things we help those recovering from abuse or dealing with a drink or drug problem and, for people at risk of homelessness, we provide specialist legal support to help vulnerable people avoid repossession.

Often people need basic living skills: we help them learn to read, write or manage their money; we help with learning domestic skills like cooking or cleaning. We also run specific courses to develop confidence and self-esteem.

We train them

Getting and keeping a job is the very best way to ensure someone is back on track – providing a steady income and building self-worth and self-esteem. Framework provides a variety of training – including practical subjects like decorating, bricklaying and carpentry – to give people the skills to find and keep a job. We also have a range of volunteering and job placement opportunities to help get people started.

Know someone in need?

If you know someone who might benefit from Framework’s support please call 0800 055 6184 in confidence and quote “Christmas Appeal 2009”