Pupils at Lawn Manor Academy have taken part in a powerful assembly on homelessness in Swindon to learn more about the realities of homelessness and the growing crisis affecting Swindon.
Delivered by Threshold, the Swindon charity that supports people who are affected by homelessness, the assembly explored the different types of homelessness, helping pupils understand that homelessness is not always visible. Topics included rough sleeping, sofa surfing, temporary accommodation, and insecure housing, alongside the many complex causes that can lead to someone losing their home.
Pupils also learned why homelessness has become an increasing concern in Swindon, with the charity highlighting the pressures facing individuals and families locally, including rising living costs, lack of affordable housing, relationship breakdown, mental health challenges, and job insecurity.
The pupils were invited to create art and poetry to present at Threshold’s upcoming Sleep Out 26 event on 20th February, which invites people to spend one night sleeping outside at Lawn Manor Academy to raise funds and show solidarity with people experiencing homelessness. The school’s house groups are also filling shopping trolleys with food donations for Threshold to distribute to people who are struggling to eat.
Year 10 pupils Makanaka and Asma took part in the assembly. Asma said: “Homelessness is a big struggle and not a lot of people get the opportunity to overcome it, but Threshold helps provide people with the support and education they need.”
Makanaka added: “It was positive to learn that even when you’re at your lowest, you can find your way back up. The Sleep Out would be pretty cool to do; it sounds fun to do it at school.”
Rachel Harris, Fundraising and Communications Manager at Threshold, explained: “Homelessness is a complex issue and it’s important that young people understand the different forms it can take. The pupils at Lawn Manor Academy showed a great insight into the issues and were keen to help shine a light on the homelessness crisis in Swindon. Sleep Out 26 is a great opportunity for the community to get involved in bringing an end to homelessness in our town and in the meantime to help us continue supporting those who need it most.”
Sleep Out 26 is open to all aged 11 and above. Registration costs £7.50 for children and £15 for adults, and participants are encouraged to multiply their giving by raising sponsorship for the challenge. Participants can register for Sleep Out 26 at www.threshold.charity/sleepout26
Places for People has generously awarded Threshold a grant of £1,000 to run the event, and local organisations Village Hotel Swindon, Gel Studios and Rapid Relief Team UK will be donating hot and cold refreshments. This means that all proceeds from ticket sales and funds raised by participants will be spent on providing people in Swindon with a safe place to live, and support to address their challenges and regain their independence.
Lawn Manor Academy is part of the Ascend Learning Trust. For more information, visit www.lawnmanor.org.
