Poster Campaign Marks Homeless Day

Sanctuary Trust has marked World Homeless Day with an eye-catching poster campaign on King Street.

Islanders walking along the high street would have see posters in doorways, next to benches and in alleys.

Chairman of Sanctuary Trust Frank Walker says the campaign aims to make people aware of the acute nature of homelessness in Jersey.

The posters appeared in busy areas of the town centre, to catch the attention of passers-by and make them aware of the charity’s work. 

Mr Walker says that the Trust’s services have seen a 63% increase in residents - mainly down to the high price of property. 

"Homelessness is hidden, but growing. I think the most worrying factor of recent times is that 70% of those we care for have jobs but just cannot afford to live in private accommodation."

He's also worried that the upcoming winter could be a bleak one.

"We're expecting the figures through the winter to at least match those from last year. But with the cost of living crisis I fear that the numbers could increase sharply."

Sanctuary Trust also produced its own handout - a nod to the Big Issue.

Fab work by @TrustSanctuary today with this publication making Islanders aware of the problems charities supporting the homeless are facing here in Jersey. The Salvation Army also provides a warm, safe place and free soup every day. #WorldHomelessDay pic.twitter.com/ITXBXxFXZP

— Emily Jayne Smith (@EmzJ_Smith) October 10, 2022

The charity has officially opened a new six bed shelter on New Street today, which means it now has capacity to house 30 people who need accommodation.

The Housing Minister has also set out a definition of homelessness which looks at four of the main types - rooflessness, houselessness and living in insecure or inadequate housing.