Homelessness in city still a 'massive problem'

A homelessness charity has warned funding for its work is at risk, but demand for its services remains high.

Julian House's Exeter-based team said it was having to rely on donations from the public and fundraising to keep running its projects.

It said any donations - whether it be a one-off or regular commitment - could help provide support in the city.

Jim McCarthy, the charity's service manager, said he expected the next set of figures would show the number of people sleeping rough on the streets had decreased, but he added it was still a "massive problem" in Exeter.

He said any drop in homelessness figures would be a "positive outcome" for the charity.

However, Mr McCarthy remained cautious about the scale of the job at hand the charity was facing: "It's still a massive problem and there's still a lot of work to do."

Sophie Wisdom, outreach worker on the rough sleeper prevention team, said the charity wanted to help homeless people get back on their feet.

Miss Wisdom said: "Even if it's just a tiny bit of help each day... you're making that day better.

"Hopefully you're helping and encouraging them to get on the pathway that's going to change their life."

Alfie, a former rough sleeper who spent a year on Exeter's streets before living in temporary accommodation for three years is about to move into a flat.

He said the help the Julian House charity provided was a vital resource to many.

Alfie said: "If it wasn't for Julian House, no-one would get a house, it's true."

"People can do it... but don't give up," he said. "That's all I say, don't give up."

Follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].