London is in a homelessness crisis - 1,130 people slept rough in Westminster last winter. Around 90% of the people we support experienced trauma in childhood, and many face further trauma and exploitation on the streets. This makes it difficult to trust services and leave homelessness behind. People sleeping rough deserve warmth, food and safety. But more than that, they deserve compassionate, consistent support that helps them leave the streets for good.

The Connection’s Street Engagement Team is on the streets of central London every day, providing food, drinks and warm clothes to stave off the cold. By meeting immediate needs and building relationships over time, we earn the trust of people sleeping rough who may have resisted support due to past trauma. Our trauma-informed approach helps people feel safe to work with us – visiting our Day Centre for a shower, meal or healthcare appointment and making plans for accommodation and recovery.