ALABARÉ Welcomes Efforts by TV Soap Emmerdale to Highlight Hidden Homelessness
We're pleased to see Emmerdale highlighting the issue of hidden homelessness through its latest storyline, making those affected more visible to the public.
ALABARÉ, is pleased to see the TV show, Emmerdale, is highlighting the issue of hidden homelessness through its latest storyline, making those affected more visible to the public.
Popular character Kammy has been struggling to find a safe place to stay after being evicted due to rent arrears.
He’s been bedding down in his car or in nearby barns, using hay bales as a bed and cooking basic meals on a camp stove.
Kammy has been trying to hide his issues by making excuses to friends and his partner for not joining them at cafés or avoiding meeting his family.
But it’s a situation that’s all too common, with an increasing number of people at risk of homelessness or facing difficult choices of where to sleep that night.
Hidden Homelessness on the rise
The latest official statistics show that there are approximately 382,618 people experiencing homelessness, including those in temporary accommodation, rough sleeping, sofa surfing and people using places like tents and sheds to lay their heads.
So-called hidden homelessness is a growing issue, and far higher than the Government’s official statistics would suggest.
ALABARÉ supports more than 3,000 people at risk of homelessness each year by providing homes, restoring hearts, and empowering minds.
The Emmerdale story resonates with one of the charity’s clients, Sue, who came to us in 2024.
She had been working as a chef but lost her job during the COVID pandemic, which led to her losing her home and eventually her children.
In accessing our Homes for Veterans service, Sue was able to move into safe and secure accommodation and receive support with her mental and physical health.
She said: “I feel like I can breathe again. ALABARÉ gave me my life back, and I’ve never felt better.”
Our Now You See Me campaign is also highlighting the links between homelessness and mental health concerns, and that with trauma-informed, tailored support, there can be positive outcomes.
Early intervention and community support, as has been seen towards Kammy on Emmerdale, can prevent crises and transform lives.
Raising awareness and sparking conversations
The charity is applauding ITV and the Salvation Army for developing the storyline on one of Britain’s most-watched programmes and putting the spotlight on an important issue.
It’s vital that hidden homelessness is more widely spoken about, to remove the stigma and ensure support is available for the people who need it.
Naomi Webb, Director of Operations at ALABARÉ, said:
“While we wouldn’t wish Kammy’s situation on anyone, it is hugely important that the issue is brought to the forefront of public consciousness – hidden homelessness is far more prevalent than we might think.
“It can only take a small change in circumstances to drastically alter someone’s life and put them at risk of homelessness. Support is there for those who need it, without fear of judgment, embarrassment or shame about the situation. It genuinely could happen to anyone. I’d urge people to keep an eye on the people you know, and watch out for changes in their behaviour, appearance, or if you feel they may need help. Reach out to them. It could be the difference between someone sleeping rough and getting the support they need.”
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