St Mungo’s is a leading homelessness charity with national influence. Last year we supported more than 26,000 people who were experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Our ambition is to end rough sleeping in this country, and we believe that the policies and interventions can be put in place to end all forms of homelessness for good.
St Mungo’s outreach teams go out each night to meet people who are homeless and help them off the streets. We are one of the largest providers of outreach services in the country.
Each night we offer a bed and support to over 2,000 people. We operate a range of accommodation services to help people at every stage of their recovery from homelessness.
We run recovery, skills and employment services to help people thrive after homelessness.
A pet can often feel like the only companion for someone sleeping on the streets. They provide solace and comfort during what can be an extremely difficult time. Forced to choose between shelter and their pet, many risk sleeping rough in dangerous conditions rather than being separated.
But here at St Mungo’s, we recognise the powerful emotional support a pet can provide. That’s why we are one of the only charities to accept pets in our hostels.
“I became homeless when I had issues with my landlord and from there I sofa surfed for a bit. After that, I slept on the streets for six days. When that happened, I asked a friend to look after my Old Time English Bulldog, Boycee, so that he would be properly cared for.
I came off from the streets and moved into a St Mungo’s accommodation which allows pets too – it was important I had Boycee back with me.
He’s five now, and I’ve had him since he was a newborn puppy. Boycee doesn't chew things up, he's not vicious at all and he enjoys playing with the other dogs here.
I wouldn’t be alive without him – he helps me through PTSD and depression. If we weren’t together, I wouldn’t leave my room for days at a time. He gives me a reason to get up and out each day.
I’m being supported by St Mungo’s into my own accommodation, in a place where I can live with Boycee and my kids can stay too.”
“Before losing my home, my father passed away, I had health issues, was attacked and went through a lot of other heartbreaking things. Then my landlord got dementia, and the decision was made to sell the house I’d been in for 12 years. I was at rock bottom and only had Zsa Zsa and Kiki for support.
Finding somewhere that would accept the three of us was a huge issue. I was prepared to sit on the street and beg for someone to give shelter to us. I couldn’t live without them; they’re my best friends.
Thankfully my community mental health team introduced me to St Mungo’s. I cried with happiness when they offered us a space.
I feel like I’m blossoming here and feel so safe with a roof over our heads. Some of my neighbours have started coming on our dog walks too, which has helped me make friends. It means everything to me that we’re still together.”
