Partnership to help homeless in city

The Big Issue, Wolverhampton homeless charity the Good Shepherd, and the City of Wolverhampton Council are joining forces for the initiative

A new partnership has launched in a bid to help people who are homeless in Wolverhampton to take their first steps back into employment.

The Big Issue, Wolverhampton homeless charity Good Shepherd, and the City of Wolverhampton Council will join forces to offer practical support and opportunities to those experiencing homelessness.

Those who sign up will receive one-to-one support from The Big Issue, helping them navigate the process of becoming vendors and building confidence through the work.

A dedicated pitch in Wolverhampton city centre has already been agreed with the council.

The partnership will be anchored around the Good Shepherd's breakfast club, which offers people who have been sleeping on the streets the night before the chance to have a cooked breakfast, a hot shower, access to clean clothing and advice and guidance to help them back into accommodation.

The Big Issue team will be present at the breakfast club to provide information and guidance to service users on how to get involved.

Tom Hayden, chief executive at the Good Shepherd, said: "This partnership with The Big Issue and City of Wolverhampton Council will offer individuals experiencing street homelessness another pathway to rebuild their lives.

"Whether it starts with a meal or a conversation at our breakfast club, every step forward matters, and we're committed to walking alongside people on their journey to recovery."

The Big Issue will also be present in the city to engage with the public, raising awareness that Big Issue tenders will be in place and encouraging the public to support the initiative.

Mohammed Afzal, Big Issue's front-line area manager in the West Midlands said: "The partnership with Good Shepherd and City of Wolverhampton Council provides an amazing opportunity anyone who is struggling and wishes to improve their lives by selling the magazine, particularly in supporting those people who are currently homeless.

"We should see more vendors in and around the city. If anyone see a vendor, please do stop and have a chat with them, and buy the magazine if you can. It's well worth the read."

Council deputy leader, Councillor Steve Evans, said: "This will give homeless people, or individuals at risk of homelessness in Wolverhampton, an opportunity to step into employment earning a legitimate income.

"It can help them regain stability and independence with the right support, having a positive impact on the wider city."