Posted on: 8th October 2026

October marks World Homelessness Day, an international day observed annually to highlight the issues around homelessness.

Homelessness and rough sleeping are often in the news. Politicians, including our Prime Minister, regularly pledge to “end homelessness”.  I do not doubt the good intentions behind this, but I question whether ‘everyone in’ will ever happen.

Homelessness is not a straightforward matter. It can be hard for many of us to understand, but some people do choose to sleep rough. Mental health difficulties, addiction, trauma and isolation can all have a significant impact. I know someone whose mental health condition means he hears voices when he is indoors by himself, so he chooses to sleep outside. Recently, I spoke with two men in their late fifties who had both been housed in their own flats, but miles away from each other and the city centre where all their support networks are. One had given up his property altogether; the other had slept in his flat only once in the previous three months.

Figures from Leeds City Council show that, in the latest rough sleeper headcount, 30% of those counted had already been housed but were choosing to sleep rough. Housing is vital, but ending homelessness must involve more than putting a roof over someone’s head. Community, connection and trusted relationships are essential.

At the heart of the Christian story is the belief that every person is made in the image of God. Every person is known and loved by their Creator.  This matters deeply when we think about homelessness. It challenges us to see beyond labels such as “rough sleeper”, “addict” or “homeless person”, and instead recognise a neighbour, a child of God, and someone whose story is more than their circumstances.

Throughout Scripture, God’s people are called to care for the poor, welcome the stranger and make room for those on the margins. Most of Jesus’ ministry was spent with people others overlooked, avoided or judged. He offered not only help, but presence, relationship and restoration.

Hospitality is not only about giving someone somewhere to stay, but creating places where people can belong, be listened to, and begin to believe again that they are valued. For people who have experienced homelessness, addiction, isolation or exclusion, that sense of belonging can be as important as practical support.

“You matter” is the message that underpins the work of Leeds Sanctuary. In my ministry alongside rough sleepers, people living with or in recovery from addiction, and those who are socially excluded or isolated, I have seen how hard that message can be to believe. Yet it is so often the message people most need to hear: that they are not forgotten, not invisible and not beyond hope. We need homes, services and policies, but we also need communities where people are known by name, welcomed without judgement and reminded of their God-given worth.

Ending homelessness is not simply about providing houses. It is about building communities where people can find safety, connection, dignity and hope — communities where every person can hear, and begin to believe, the words: you matter.

Find out more about Leeds Sanctuary’s singing group for anyone who has experienced homelessness or is otherwise socially isolated or excluded at www.leedssanctuary.org.uk/sanctuary-singers