OVERVIEW
2012/13
This year, we have supported at least 634 individuals (617 in 2011/12).
In addition to this, we have supported many individuals whom we have been unable to identify, for instance, one-off callers to our 24/7 Emergency Helpline. Of those we have supported, the circumstances of 582 individuals were known to us, and of these, the following statistics apply:
This year, we have begun a lengthy process of improving the way we are collecting and analysing data from our service users. As a consequence, we are painting a more accurate picture regarding the complex situations which they face. There are a few marked differences between this year’s statistics and last: we have seen a greater number of under-30s in need of homelessness services than in previous years and an increasing number are female. Also, the number of service users suffering from mental health issues has increased. This particular issue is now being recorded with a much greater degree of accuracy than in previous years, which explains in part the dramatic increase from 44% (2012) to 65% (2013). Attention will be given to this issue for a report in 2014. Tragically, this year we lost an average of one service user per month to death and all-barone was under the age of 50. This statistic has been constant for the past three years and it highlights the stark reality of the situations that our ‘front-line’ staff face when working with people in desperate situations. During our 23rd anniversary service, we held a time of remembrance for those we had lost over the course of the year. We intend to hold these poignant times of reflection each year going forward.
6