During the ongoing pandemic, there is one group of people who cannot follow the government advice to stay at home. That’s because they don’t have a home. People experiencing homelessness and sleeping rough on the streets of Luton are in grave danger from the virus.

Not only do around 71 per cent of rough sleepers have underlying physical health issues – making them more at risk of severe symptoms – but they also are unable to maintain good hygiene, as they have limited opportunities to wash.

At the moment, things are tough.

The Welfare Centre on Park Street is cutting back on services, and street kitchens are closing due to volunteers having to self-isolate. But things could get a lot worse before this is over.

Signposts are working closely with Luton Borough Council to try and bring forward the opening date of their new supported accommodation, Guildford Hall.

This would give rough sleepers not only a safe warm bedroom of their own, but also showers, laundry facilities and three meals a day, plus all the ongoing support they need to get their lives back on track.

Guildford Hall is former student accommodation in the town centre.

It will have 45 bedrooms, which Signposts are refurbishing and decorating to make it a welcoming, comfortable environment. We believe that just because someone is experiencing tough times, doesn’t mean we should give them anything less than the best.

If you can help Signposts by sparing just a couple of pounds, please go to www.justgiving.com/campaign/guildfordhall.

If you would like to find out more about the work that Signposts do in Luton, please click here.