What do I do if I see someone who is rough sleeping?

Sleeping outside can be detrimental to people's mental and physical health. It can be difficult to know what to do if you come across someone who you believe is having to sleep outside. Here's some advice:

Firstly, if someone requires urgent medical attention, please call 111 or 999.

If you see someone sleeping outside, alert a local outreach service via the StreetLink app. This national service will connect a local outreach team to the reported location. They will support the individual and connect them to available accommodation.

The app is the most efficient way to quickly engage the local outreach team, but you can also call StreetLink on 0300 500 0914.

If you want to know what support is available to people experiencing homelessness, Street Support is a great resource. You can filter to your local area and the kind of support needed. You'll get a list of what's out there to help.

Should I give money to people on the streets?

This is your choice. Once you have given someone cash you cannot expect to have any say in how they use it. They might choose to buy food for themselves, or their families or pets. But, if they have an addiction, they may use the money in ways that you wouldn’t choose yourself. Giving cash may help someone with their short term needs, but it is unlikely to solve their problems in the longer term (Homeless Link).

Donate to Greater Manchester Mayor's Charity to ensure your money gets to where it's needed. There's contactless donation points around Manchester and you can donate here.

Donate today and know that your money will help tackle homelessness across our city-region for a fairer and more sustainable future.