A challenge for our time

Forty years ago, Cathy Come Home, Ken Loach’s powerful film about a young family's descent into homelessness, shocked the nation and inspired a campaign for change. Since then different governments have acted to tackle homelessness and help people like Cathy. Nevertheless, tens of thousands of people still become homeless each year. Too many still fall through the safety net.

Our member organisations support the thousands of people whose lives have been marked by homelessness. Every day they help people to make the journey to their own home. But they believe much more is possible.

We have a unique opportunity. We can be the generation that looks back with pride, knowing we proved it was possible to end this enduring social ill.

That opportunity is ours. The moment to act is now. We invite you to join us in making homelessness history.

This ambition is not for the faint-hearted. It is challenging. It will provoke scepticism, cynicism and debate. It will need determination, intelligence and resources. This is not about sentiment; it is about seeking success in this most challenging area of social change.

We believe it is right to aim high. The UK is a prosperous country. It is already an international pace setter in tackling homelessness. The great progress already achieved must give us the confidence to be truly ambitious.

Your leadership and your commitment can make the difference. Will you rise to the challenge?

Jenny Edwards

Chief Executive, Homeless Link

PS This pamphlet includes action lists as prompts. We would be pleased to hear about your views and the outcomes of any steps you take.

Tony O'Brien is a homeless artist participating in Thames Reach's Vision Impossible Project in London.