Brighton charity releases fundraising film on 'invisibility of homeless'

The charity's annual Christmas appeal is to raise funds for its First Base Day Centre, which provides food, showers and support to rough sleepers in the city.

The film, produced at no cost to BHT by local film company, Big Egg Films, captures the invisibility, loneliness and sadness experienced by rough sleepers, particularly at Christmas.

Andy Winter, BHT chief executive, said: “This year we have had a big focus on women and homelessness. The report we published in the autumn written by Cathy Bunker, quoted Jo, a rough sleeper, who said ‘Everyone’s looking but they are not looking at you, they’re looking through you like you’re not there.’

“We aim to make Christmas a little bit more bearable for those with nowhere to call home. But rough sleeping isn’t just about Christmas, and the funds we raise at this time of the year helps us to work with people living on the streets throughout the year.

“First Base offers a range of services to support people who are sleeping rough or who are insecurely housed in Brighton and Hove. We provide food, hot drinks, showers, clean and dry clothes, and support to get off the streets.

“First Base also provides opportunities for work experience and learning. In partnership with other agencies, a range of services are provided for our clients including dentistry, podiatry, nursing interventions, mental health advice and support, and accommodation and relocation services.

“Last year many people who could afford it donated their Winter Fuel Allowance to BHT. That made a huge difference and where we can we claim Gift Aid which increases the amount we receive by 25 per cent.

“I would like to thank all at Big Egg Films, who donated the film at no cost to BHT, for being so generous with their time and expertise.”

Donations can be made by cheque payable to ‘Brighton Housing Trust’ and sent to Andy Winter, BHT, 144 London Road, Brighton, BN1 4PH, or online at www.bht.org.uk