HOMELESSNESS

How can technology help tackle homelessness?

Seb Barker says it is crucial we adopt a person-centric approach to tackling homelessness, and he sets out some of the benefits technology can bring to the sector.

I want to introduce you to a person called Tyrone. He was recently referred to Beam, the organisation I co-founded that supports homeless people and refugees into jobs and homes. After being made redundant from his job in November, the 34-year-old father of two was on the cusp of losing everything he'd worked hard for. Unable to find a new job and faced with spiralling living costs, he ended up in rental arrears and was at risk of being evicted and becoming homeless.

Sadly, Tyrone's story is becoming all too common. In a recent survey we conducted, a third of Brits said they are worried about becoming homeless in 2023 because they're struggling to meet the cost of living. Meanwhile 43% are worried about friends and family members becoming homeless.

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