4am start to my day; I joined the RSI (Rough Sleeper Initiative) Team to support their National Rough Sleeper Walk Count. The team was divided into four groups to cover key areas, including the Town Centre, Clifton Park, Moorgate, Riverside House, Canklow, the canal route leading to Sheffield, Bailey Suite, Eastwood, Parkgate Retail World, and other locations beyond the Town Centre.
In this cold weather all the staff are a shining example of compassion and collaboration. By coming together, agencies identified and reached out to individuals who are most vulnerable, offering not only immediate support but also pathways to long-term solutions. For rough sleepers, this outreach can be life-changing—it provides warmth, sustenance, and a sense of being seen and valued. More importantly, it opens doors to essential services like housing, healthcare, and mental health support, offering hope in what can feel like a bleak time. Such efforts remind us of the power of community and the importance of ensuring no one is left out in the cold.
A heartfelt thank you to the dedicated multi-agency team for their collaboration: Shane Charles, Phil Hamilton, Matthew McMullen, Nick Martindale, Wayne Coulston, Lisa Cox, Cath Horton , Louise Benton, Sarah Smart ,
Jonny Goldsmith, Brogan Turner and Darcey Brocklehurst.
Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council
Shiloh Rotherham
P3 Charity (People Potential Possibilities)
Target Housing
Action Housing & Support
@We Are With You
Your collective efforts made this initiative impactful.