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Homelessness in Manchester: The Challenges, the Reality, the Response

Date: Wednesday 14th October 2026
Time: 12:00 PM - 01:30 PM
Location: HALL BROWN, Ship Canal House, 98 King Street, , M2 4WU
Cost: £FREE Members, £20+VAT Non-members
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Andy Burnham set out a statement of intent in his maiden speech as PM outside Downing Street. ‘On my first day as prime minister, I’m announcing this government’s commitment to finally end long-term rough sleeping across the UK at the earliest opportunity.
We look what is needed in real terms by local organisations supporting the homeless community at ground level and hear from three leaders of homeless charities in the city centre, all providing differing and critical support services to the homeless community that they serve.
We will discuss the challenges they face on funding, the complexities of reintegrating people into mainstream society and take questions from the audience.
 
Created by the pro-manchester's Charity Committee

About the Speakers:

Yvonne Hope Chief Executive - Barnabus

Yvonne leads a small independent Christian charity which supports rough sleepers and those at risk of homelessness in Manchester city centre. They have a small team of 17 staff and over 100 volunteers all working to help our friends move into long term sustainable homes alongside developing confidence and skills.

 

Supported by a Board of Trustees, Yvonne works with other homeless charities, grassroots organisations, Manchester City Council, Greater Manchester Police and part of the Manchester Homeless Charter which seeks to end homelessness for good in Manchester.
Ros Holland Chief Executive - Boaz Trust

Ros is a leader guided by her core values of growth, wholeheartedness, and making a difference. She has spent over 25 years working in the charity sector, from local grassroots groups to national and international organisations. Ros is passionate about supporting people and organisations facing tough challenges to flourish and thrive.

Currently lead a local charity supporting people who’ve experienced homelessness after seeking sanctuary in the UK. Boaz offer safe, stable accommodation and person-centred trauma-informed support across Greater Manchester.
Risha Lancaster Co-Founder with Hendrix - Coffee4Craig

Risha co-founded Coffee4Craig in September 2013 following the death of her brother Craig who was street homeless in Cardiff.

Coffee4Craig drop-in runs 5 nights a week, welcoming 50–80 guests per session with hot home cooked meals, showers, clothing and toiletries, and a safe, non-judgmental space. We also offer advice, signposting, and crisis intervention. By day, our bespoke Relief and Recovery (R&R) service works one-on-one with guests on whatever they need and want — from attending medical appointments or visiting people in hospital, to leisure and well being activities and volunteering opportunities. It’s person-centered support, tailored to each individual

The team work during the evenings and night during the winter to ensure people have a safe place to stay during particularly harsh and cold weather running the out of hours response when the severe cold weather response is triggered by the council.

Interested In The Event?

If you’re interested in attending, you can book online here.

For any further enquires about this event, contact [email protected]