'Bittersweet' record demand for homeless charity

The Garden House supports rough sleepers across Peterborough

The number of homeless people seeking support from a Peterborough charity reached a record high last month as people continued to struggle with the cost of living.

Light Project Peterborough said the statistics were "bittersweet", as it showed awareness of its services had increased but it was "worrying" to see how many people had recently been made homeless.

In July, 2,442 visits were made to the Garden House, and 309 people were supported. In July last year, only 196 people sought support there.

Fundraising officer Matt Edgley said the rising need put some strain on the team, which was "always looking for more support from people".

The Garden House, run by Light Project Peterborough, is a day respite centre for rough sleepers across the city.

Visitors receive support from housing officers, GPs, drug and alcohol specialists, a mental health team and other professionals as well as use of amenities such as showers and washing machines.

The charity said it was about helping people feel human again and giving them a home, "even if it is just for a few hours".

Mr Edgley said: "Cost-of-living has been a big issue. People have been struggling to keep on top of bills, and for lot of people, if they do lose their job, they could be just months away from experiencing homelessness.

"Like most charities, we rely on funding and we never want to turn anyone away. Our volunteers give up their time and have a massive impact. We are a small team – without them, we would really struggle."

Since November, the Garden House has increased its opening hours to seven days a week and increased night-shelter support for rough sleepers.

Mr Edgley urged people interested in volunteering or fundraising to get in touch, and said the success stories of some of the people who had used the charity showed the impact it can have.