World Homeless Day is today and along with the rest of the world, Oxford is no different in that there are those experiencing homelessness.

Important projects for the homeless in Oxford include the Luther Street Medical Centre which is a purpose built building completed in 2005 and the Oxford Homeless Medical Fund.

The Oxford Homeless Medical Fund was integral in funding the LSMC and now part funds the mental health work in the centre.

The OHMF holds a pot of money that LSMC staff and patients can apply to for funding towards a variety of things that could help patients on the path to recovery.

The grants can go towards anything from emergency food and clothing, to funding college courses or help furnish a new flat. Whether small or large, these grants can make all the difference to vulnerable, challenging and marginalised individuals on the streets of Oxford.

Mary Squires, a Mental Health Practitioner at Luther Street Medical Centre, tells this story of how the fund helped a homeless man she worked with: "When I met Joe, he was living in a field with almost no protection from the elements. Gradually through cups of tea, and hearty breakfasts we began a gradual journey to get him healthier, more confident and to have a place to call home. T

"The Oxford Homeless Medical Fund (OHMF) enabled me go shopping with Joe, where he brought clothes and a small radio. This small gesture had a huge impact. With clean clothing Joe was treated differently by others they didn't move away or stare at him in the street, actions which had fuelled his paranoia surrounding people. Having a radio helped him keep better track of days and what was going on in the world. And importantly as a music lover, it gave him great enjoyment. Joe has come a long way since then and now has a room in supported accommodation."

Homeless people often struggle with an array of mental health problems, as well as physical ones.

Kaye McDougall is involved in Luther Street Medical Centre and works at O’Hanlon house, which provides emergency accommodation and a resettlement service, says this of the project: “At O’Hanlon House we see people coming through our doors with an infinite range of health problems, be they physical or mental. Having Luther Street Medical Centre attached to our building hugely benefits our clients and makes essential health care both accessible and approachable. As someone who is currently involved at both projects, it’s brilliant to see the way they benefit each other and work well together.”

Adding to its services, Oxford Homeless Medical Fund has launched a volunteer run project called Promoting Access to Health Services (PATHS). PATHS has a team of volunteers who accompany patients to healthcare appointments.

This year alone the service has already totted up 450 volunteer hours. In order for OHMF to continue supporting LSMC and its patients, it needs to ensure that this fund doesn’t dwindle. If you think you can help by donating to the fund or offering your time to the PATHS project, then Oxford Homeless Pathways would like to hear from you.

Email: ohmf@oxhop.org.uk Tel: 01865 792126 www.oxhop.org.uk OHMF is managed by Oxford Homeless Pathways (OxHoP), a registered charity that provides services for homeless and recently homeless people in Oxford.