READING’S homelessness prevention charity, Launchpad, is calling on the community to help support its work during the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic and is appealing for donations to raise £30,000.

The charity is supporting vulnerable people in Reading including those who are homeless or at risk of losing their home during the Covid-19 outbreak whilst keeping staff, clients and members of the public safe. 

Launchpad said its teams are working from the charity’s office, making daily support calls to clients instead of providing their usual face-to-face meetings to offer emotional support.

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Teams are also checking clients are following the government guidance; assisting them to claim and manage their benefits; ensuring they are receiving any treatment and medication they require; and in line with support plans, continuing to help clients tackle their issues.

During the pandemic, Launchpad staff are delivering food, toiletries and cleaning supplies to clients who cannot access what they need, and are able to offer resources such as white goods for clients who are unable to cook a hot meal or clean their clothes at home. 

The charity is also continuing to provide supported housing for rough sleepers so they have a clean, stable and safe place to live, and the charity has extended its service to members of the public with a ‘here for you’ telephone service.

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Ian Caren, CEO of Launchpad, said: “Launchpad’s services are vital, now more than ever.

“Many of our clients are battling issues such as poor mental health, debt and addiction and now, because of the COVID-19 outbreak, they are isolated, afraid and at risk of serious illness due to underlying health conditions such as COPD, diabetes and hepatitis.

“A large number also don’t have access to food or the benefits they need to keep them safe and well. "Launchpad staff are key workers during this national emergency, and we are doing everything in our power to make sure our clients – and members of the public - have the support they urgently need.”

He added: “It is easy to feel powerless and frustrated if you’re stuck at home but you can still make a huge difference. 

“Launchpad simply cannot deliver our crucial services for vulnerable individuals, couples and families during the pandemic without people’s kind donations. 

“We are asking for our community’s help to raise £30,000, so that together, we can protect our community over the coming weeks, and as the pandemic worsens.” 

Please visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/launchpadcovid19 to donate to Launchpad’s COVID-19 emergency appeal.