Doncaster’s homeless are 'being left even more isolated' by the coronavirus pandemic

This week, officials revealed there the pandemic had resulted in a significant increase in the number of people facing homelessness in Doncaster, with nine people currently on the streets despite work by official agencies, who stated those who were not in accommodation had either chosen not at accept it or lost it as a result of their behaviour.

Now Officials at Ongo M25 Services, which runs a community based support service in Doncaster for single people who have been affected by, or are at risk of homelessness, have spoken of the impact they have seen on those they work with.

The organisation helps people develop the skills necessary to successfully manage a home and lifestyle, moving towards a sustainable independent life in the community.

Support Services Manager at Ongo M25, Helen Wright, said the organisation was currently at capacity working with 44 homeless clients – the total number of bed spaces it has.

Staff have introduced safe systems of work so they can continue to support clients safely, and is still offering face to face support, although socially distanced.

She said: “Social isolation and loneliness is one of the biggest issues that we are seeing at present, and this is only likely to increase over the holiday period.

"In terms of a notable impact on the homeless and the vulnerable, who already suffer with social isolation and loneliness, the pandemic has exacerbated the situation with the closure of many support networks.”

She said organisations were working together to try to keep homeless people off the streets.

"We have worked closely with St Leger Homes and DMBC to achieve the aims of the Government and their ‘Everyone In’ campaign. We believe this has been successful and all agencies have worked closely together, using all possible resources to help keep people of the streets during this pandemic.” she added.

She said all the organisation’s clients have different needs, and they worked with each one to identify their goals and aspirations. “For some this could be reuniting with their family, securing employment or learning how to manage a tenancy,” she added. “All are achieved regularly within the project.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.