StreetSmart: How UK Restaurants Are Helping Tackle Homelessness
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2 weeks ago
The annual fundraising campaign is back
Every winter, charity StreetSmart invites restaurants to join its annual campaign, which aims to help fight homelessness. It’s back this November, with a record number of sign-ups from eateries all over the country – here’s how to support the cause.
Over 600 Restaurants Have Joined StreetSmart’s Annual Campaign
According to the latest figures, more than 350,000 households in the UK contacted their local authority for support after being threatened with homelessness or losing their home from 2023 to 2024 – up over 10 percent since last year. Of these, the majority of people were assessed as homeless.
And in London alone, more than 4,000 people were recorded sleeping rough between January and March at the start of this year, which is the highest number in a decade. StreetSmart’s campaign is therefore more important than ever before.
Throughout November and December, restaurants are invited to join the fundraising initiative by giving diners the chance to add £1 to their bill when dining out, which will go directly towards the charity’s cause.
Over 600 restaurants around the UK are taking part this year, including London stalwarts like The River Cafe, Core by Clare Smyth and St John.
Jeremy Lee, founder of Quo Vadis – one of London’s most iconic restaurants, which is also joining the initiative – says: ‘StreetSmart’s secret is that it’s dead simple. Today, we can feel far too busy and serious to do anything, but with this tiny effort you can end up with a large lump sum after Christmas. It’s a small gesture for a big problem. Hopefully one day it won’t be necessary.’
Since being founded in 1998, StreetSmart has raised over £13 million for vulnerable people – with last year’s campaign alone raising £1 million from donations. Funds go directly towards the charity’s vital projects, such as creating emergency shelters, running training centres and offering mental health support.
How To Get Involved
Check StreetSmart’s website to see which restaurants are taking part, then book a meal and say yes to the voluntary £1 donation at the end. streetsmart.org.uk
