Two Saints, in collaboration with Homeless Link and hundreds of other organisations, participated in a historic mass lobby day at Parliament on March 5, 2024. The aim of the event was to ensure effective measures to combat homelessness are on the agenda in the upcoming election, echoing the objectives outlined in Homeless Link’s manifesto.
Representatives from Two Saints engaged in discussions with various Hampshire Members of Parliament, emphasising the need for urgent action to address homelessness nationwide. Among the local MPs met were Caroline Dinenage, Damian Hinds, Paul Holmes, Kit Malthouse and Maria Miller, and Suella Braverman’s Parliamentary Assistant, Charles Rivington kindly attended on her behalf. We are delighted that these MPs have either recently visited our services in their constituency or are making plans to do so imminently.
In addition to the national focus for the day Two Saints also had the opportunity for discussions addressing the proposed funding cuts from Hampshire County Council and their potential impact on the vulnerable clients they support and provide housing to, thus avoiding homelessness.
The advocacy efforts of Two Saints received positive support from all MPs involved, signalling a promising step forward in addressing the challenges faced by individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Richard Gammage, Chief Executive of Two Saints, expressed his gratitude, stating,
“The extensive support for the event shows how passionate people are about preventing homelessness and, where it does happen, supporting those in most need. We look to our political leaders to show the same commitment and to fund the sector properly.”
Paula-May Houghton Clarke, Executive Director of People and Programmes at Two Saints, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the enthusiastic atmosphere of the day and the unity demonstrated by all participants rallying behind the common cause,
“It was a great day and such a privilege to join with so many organisations in our sector working towards a common goal; to ensure an effective plan to end homelessness is on the agenda for the upcoming election. What was particularly beneficial was the opportunity to meet collectively with MPs from the areas that we support so we could paint the picture of the true impact of the proposed cuts across Hampshire”
The collaboration between Two Saints, Homeless Link, and other organisations underscores the collective commitment to address homelessness and pave the way for positive change.