This winter, we're launching our emergency appeal as we experience the highest demand for our services since we began 36 years ago.

In October, St Petrocs worked with 119 people sleeping rough in Cornwall, a 26% increase compared to the previous month and the highest number on our records.

As the pressure of the cost-of-living crisis grows, the need for support for those with housing issues is significantly increasing. St Petrocs are currently actively working with 550 people in the county across their services. We are appealing to the Cornish community to support our work as we face this unprecedented demand for services.

Henry Meacock, Chief Executive, says “Right now there are thousands of people across Cornwall who are at breaking point and for many the pressures will become too much.  Making the experience of homelessness as short as possible is critically important as the health and social consequences of spending even one night outside are extremely detrimental.  We are only able to offer our support services thanks to the generosity of the community.  Any donation is sincerely appreciated and will make a positive difference.  In the short term, we will keep our doors open this winter to those who need us. Over the longer term we will continue to push for the changes that are needed to end homelessness in Cornwall.  This is achievable and your support will contribute to the effort.”

The longer someone stays on the street, the greater the risk they will be stuck without secure accommodation for the long term, so we are focusing on rapidly rehousing people into suitable accommodation. We've recently opened new accommodation and are working towards opening another house to provide support for more of those in need.

Prevention is a key area of our work and we encourage anyone facing housing issues or homelessness to seek advice early. Our advice line is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, and gives confidential advice on housing matters. Call 01872 264153 for support.

Support our winter appeal