MICHELLE SAYS

‘When the opportunity to work for Shelter came up 15 years ago, I jumped at the chance to apply. I’d previously worked for HM Courts and Tribunals Service and saw how poverty and the lack of affordable, safe housing led to devastating consequences for families who found themselves in court defending mortgage and rent possession actions. I wanted to work for a charity that actively supported people to help them prevent or recover from crisis, and to fight to secure and defend homes for people and families in our communities.

Every day is different; you never know what awaits you when you start work each morning. Over the many years I’ve worked for Shelter, the help we’ve needed to provide has changed drastically, with social and political changes, and with the pandemic. The most rewarding part of my role is when the team has prevented a family becoming homeless, stopped an unfair eviction, or improved a housing situation. Every aspect of life is so difficult if you don’t have somewhere safe to call home.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Winter is a really important time for us as a charity. The double threat of coronavirus and cold weather can prove to be life-threatening for people who don’t have a home. There are lots of ways we can all help, from giving warm clothes, fundraising, volunteering, donating or even simply stopping for a chat with someone you think is vulnerable. Christmas is a wonderful opportunity to give back.’ • To help support the thousands of people facing homelessness this winter, donate to Shelter today at england.shelter.org.uk/donate