High Street Impact entrant – Brighter Futures

High Street Impact entrant – Brighter Futures
Posted on 01.06.25
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High Street Impact entrant – Brighter Futures

For more than 50 years, Brighter Futures has provided accommodation-based support to vulnerable adults in Stoke-on-Trent, specialising in homelessness, vulnerable women and learning disabilities.

In 1995, after increased demand at the Granville Hostel, Brighter Futures staff carried out a one-night rough sleeper count that highlighted a critical need within the city. This led to securing funding to set up the Rough Sleepers Team.

To this day, the team is dedicated to providing support for the homeless and community at large as a trusted partner to help ensure Stoke-on-Trent’s high streets are safer and more welcoming.

Starting their shift at 6am, 365 days a year, the team delivers person-centred, non-judgmental outreach. They complete verification paperwork and referrals, offer hot drinks and essential supplies, signpost to support and build relationships that empower individuals to take their first steps toward securing accommodation.

By helping individuals off the streets the team contribute to reducing anti-social behaviour and improving public perceptions of safety. Working in partnership with local authorities, the police, and community groups, they help ensure town centres are inclusive and accessible for everyone. They attend encampments with PCSCOs to promote their service to rough sleepers, help individuals to consider a stable future, litter-pick needles at hotspots and signpost women to the Orchid Sanctuary, a night-time safe space for vulnerable females to access food, essentials and advice.

The team is active in educating the public, raising awareness, and de-stigmatising rough sleeping. They attend regular action days across Stoke-on-Trent’s five towns and Newcastle-under-Lyme boroughs, where they engage with the public, listen to concerns and work with partner services to put together action plans. The team operate a 24/7 helpline allows anyone to report rough sleeping and find out how they can help.

Brighter Futures has entered the High Street Impact category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.

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