Meet the volunteers offering friendship and support to the homeless in Lancaster and Morecambe

But for those enduring or at risk of homelessness, lack of those crucial bonds can lead to an all too real risk of isolation.

Which is why one Lancaster charity is reaching out to some of the most vulnerable as they rebuild their lives.

Let’s BeFriends is a befriending service in the Lancaster and Morecambe district that supports those who are homeless, at risk of homelessness or recently rehoused. And many of its trained volunteers have first-hand experience of what they are going through.

“It is hard to overstate how much good human connection does for our health and wellbeing,” said a spokesperson. “Connecting helps us to be happier, feel more vital and have more meaning in our lives – to thrive rather than survive.

"We stand to benefit tremendously yet our connection seems more tenuous than ever today. There are individuals who are cut off from the support of family and friends which many people take for granted.

“The majority of our staff, volunteers and Trustees have lived experience of the pressures of homelessness and are passionate about recognising stigma, challenging discrimination and promoting resilience.”

One of those with lived experience is network co-ordinator, Claire Richardson, who explained: “I became involved with Let's BeFriends because of my own personal past.

“I'm 13 years in recovery now from drug abuse and I was also homeless in early 2000. I was on the streets. I lacked self worth, confidence and self belief. I was screaming out, wanting help and support and guidance, and I didn't want to be ignored. And so I went to Let's BeFriends because I've got so much empathy.”

Let’s BeFriends was set up during the Covid-19 lockdown by members of the Lancaster Homeless Action Group after they identified a gap in service provision – namely that whilst gaining shelter was a great step towards helping to end the cycle of homelessness, the accommodation itself was not enough to address lack of community connection or alleviate the sense of isolation.

Volunteers receive training in boundaries, safeguarding and confidentiality.