The Rural Homelessness Podcast

ep12 Kieran's Journey: Finding Hope and Help after Homelessness

In this episode of the Rural Homelessness Podcast, host Matt McChlery discusses the pressing issue of rural homelessness in the UK with a resident named Kieran. Kieran shares his personal journey from experiencing homelessness to finding support through the Ferry Project. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by homeless individuals, the misconceptions surrounding homelessness, and the importance of community support and understanding. Kieran emphasizes the need for compassion and the willingness to ask for help, illustrating how the Ferry Project has made a significant difference in his life.
Links
ferryproject.org.uk
Takeaways
Rural homelessness is a significant issue in the UK.
Personal experiences of homelessness can be transformative.
Support services like the Ferry Project are crucial for recovery.
Misconceptions about homelessness often lead to stigma.
Community kindness can make a difference in a homeless person's life.
Asking for help is a vital step towards recovery.
There is hope and a path forward for those experiencing homelessness.
Education and skills training can empower individuals to rebuild their lives.
Understanding the reasons behind homelessness fosters compassion.
Everyone deserves a chance to be heard and helped.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rural Homelessness02:00 Kieran's Journey: From Homelessness to Hope10:13 Misconceptions About Homelessness12:00 Life After the Ferry Project
 
 

ep11 Rural Homelessness and Addiction: A Complex Relationship

In this episode of the Rural Homelessness Podcast, host Matt McChlery discusses the intricate relationship between rural homelessness and addiction with guests John Heathorn and Coryn Price. They explore how addiction can both contribute to and result from homelessness, the importance of tailored support services, and the challenges faced in rural areas regarding access to addiction treatment. The conversation emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to recovery, focusing on individual needs and the importance of timely access to services.
Links
ferryproject.org.uk
Join the Mailing List
Takeaways
The relationship between homelessness and addiction is complex and not always causal.
Long-term homelessness can increase the likelihood of addiction issues.
Providing stable housing can significantly reduce addiction problems.
Support services must be tailored to individual needs for effective recovery.
Mental health issues often accompany addiction in homeless individuals.
Rural areas face unique challenges in accessing addiction services.
Alcohol is more prevalent in rural homelessness compared to urban areas.
Zero tolerance policies in shelters must balance safety and compassion.
Recovery is a journey that may not always lead to complete abstinence.
Timely access to services is crucial for those seeking help. 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rural Homelessness Podcast01:58 Understanding the Complex Relationship Between Addiction and Homelessness10:25 The Role of Support Services in Recovery20:30 Managing Drug Use in Homeless Shelters24:24 Improving Access to Addiction Services in Rural Areas
 

ep10 How Collaboration Can Transform Communities

In this episode of the Rural Homelessness Podcast, host Matt McChlery talks with Keith Smith, founder of The Ferry Project, and Andy Brown, Chief Sustainability Officer at Anglian Water. The discussion revolves around the collaborative efforts to address rural homelessness through community engagement, the role of Business in the Community (BITC), and the impact of local initiatives. The guests share insights on how businesses can contribute to social responsibility, the importance of community centers in preventing homelessness, and the long-term benefits of sustained engagement. The conversation also highlights the recognition received from royal figures, emphasizing the significance of these initiatives in transforming communities. In this conversation, the participants discusses the transformative power of community engagement and collaboration between businesses and local organizations. The speakers share inspiring stories from Wisbech, highlighting how initiatives aimed at raising aspirations among youth and addressing rural homelessness have made a significant impact. They emphasize the importance of long-term commitment and genuine involvement in community projects, showcasing the positive outcomes that arise when businesses work together for the greater good.
Links
ferryproject.org.uk
anglianwater.co.uk
bitc.org.uk
Takeaways
Rural homelessness is a complex issue that requires community collaboration.
BITC plays a crucial role in connecting businesses with local communities.
The Ferry Project focuses on preventing homelessness through community engagement.
Positive interactions can significantly change a person's life trajectory.
Anglian Water's commitment extends beyond providing water to social responsibility.
Long-term engagement is essential for meaningful community transformation.
Community centers can serve as vital resources for local populations.
Educational initiatives are key to inspiring youth and expanding their horizons.
Royal recognition can amplify the impact of community projects.
Sustained efforts in community support can lead to significant improvements in local well-being. Aspirations can only be formed based on what individuals know and believe.
Experiences can expand children's visions of possibilities.
Community engagement can lead to significant social change.
Businesses can impact communities without large financial investments.
Long-term commitment is essential for effective community work.
Collaboration between sectors can unlock transformative opportunities.
Local initiatives can address food poverty and homelessness effectively.
Youth engagement in community projects fosters leadership skills.
Purpose-driven business practices enhance community relations.
Every business has the potential to contribute positively to their community.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rural Homelessness Podcast01:57 Collaboration for Community Transformation07:40 The Role of BITC in Supporting Communities12:00 Preventing Homelessness through Community Engagement14:51 Anglian Water's Commitment to Social Responsibility20:41 Long-term Impact and Royal Recognition28:50 Educational Initiatives and Community Support32:41 Inspiring Aspirations in Wisbech41:21 The Role of Businesses in Community Transformation51:32 Addressing Rural Homelessness through Collaboration
 

ep9 Nicole's Story: Finding Hope After Homelessness

In this episode of the Rural Homelessness Podcast, host Matt McChlery speaks with Nicole, a mother of three, who shares her personal journey through homelessness. Nicole discusses the circumstances that led to her becoming homeless, her experiences in temporary accommodation, and the vital support she received from the Ferry Project. The conversation highlights the emotional impact of homelessness, the misconceptions surrounding it, and the importance of community support. Nicole also reflects on her current life and future hopes, emphasizing that homelessness can happen to anyone and that understanding and compassion are crucial in addressing this issue.
Links
ferryproject.org.uk
Takeaways
Homelessness can take many forms, not just street living.
Temporary accommodation can still be a form of homelessness.
Support from organizations like the Ferry Project is crucial.
Emotional and mental impacts of homelessness are significant.
Misconceptions about homelessness often lead to stigma.
Homelessness can happen to anyone due to various circumstances.
Community support can make a huge difference in recovery.
It's important to listen to individual stories of homelessness.
Children can adapt remarkably well to challenging situations.
Understanding homelessness requires empathy and awareness.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Rural Homelessness Podcast01:27 Nicole's Journey into Homelessness04:46 Life in Temporary Accommodation08:39 Support from the Ferry Project11:05 Misconceptions About Homelessness13:27 Current Life and Future Hopes

ep8 Shining a Light on Rural Homelessness

In this episode of the Rural Homelessness Podcast, host Matt McChlery speaks with Rory Weal, chair of the Rural Homelessness Counts Coalition, about the pressing issue of rural homelessness. They discuss the coalition's formation, the unique challenges faced by rural communities, and the importance of raising awareness. Rory shares statistics on rural homelessness, highlights the coalition's successes, and outlines best practices for local authorities. They also explore the potential of the Housing First model in rural areas and the establishment of a community of practice to foster collaboration among service providers. Rory expresses hopes for a future where homelessness is recognized and addressed effectively across all communities. Listen now.
Website
ferryproject.org.uk
Rural Homelessness Counts Coalition website
Takeaways
Rural homelessness is often overlooked and misunderstood.
The Rural Homelessness Counts Coalition was formed to address this crisis.
Awareness and changing perceptions are crucial for tackling rural homelessness.
Isolation and lack of services are significant challenges in rural areas.
Statistics on rural homelessness are often underreported.
The coalition aims to bring rural homelessness into mainstream discussions.
Best practices for local authorities include community-based outreach.
Housing First could be a viable solution in rural contexts.
A community of practice can enhance collaboration among service providers.
Future efforts should focus on comprehensive strategies to end homelessness.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rural Homelessness00:58 Understanding the Rural Homelessness Counts Coalition04:50 Raising Awareness of Rural Homelessness11:03 The Unique Challenges of Rural Homelessness16:46 Statistics and Trends in Rural Homelessness19:10 Celebrating Successes of the Coalition21:28 Best Practices for Local Authorities24:51 Exploring Housing First in Rural Areas27:39 Building a Community of Practice31:25 Future Aspirations for the Coalition
 
 

ep7 Challenges of Employment in Rural Areas

This episode of the Rural Homelessness Podcast discusses the challenges of employment in rural areas, focusing on Wisbech. The guests, Russell Beale and Terry Jordan, share their insights and experiences. They discuss the employment statistics of Anglian Water, the typical industries in Wisbech, and the impact of mechanization on labor opportunities. They also explore the importance of connectivity, such as the need for a railway station and improved transport links. The conversation highlights the difficulties faced by employers and employees in rural areas, including the lack of skilled workers and low-wage, part-time, or zero-hours contracts. The guests emphasize the need for regeneration, more medium-sized businesses, a wider range of jobs, and increased apprenticeships to improve employment prospects in rural areas and thus reduce the risk of someone becoming homeless.
In this episode of the Rural Homelessness Podcast, host Matt McChlery speaks with Ed, who shares his personal experience of homelessness. Ed discusses the challenges he faced while being homeless, including the cycle of crime and imprisonment to have a roof over his head. He also highlights the difficulties of finding basic necessities like food and shelter while living on the streets. Ed emphasizes the importance of understanding and compassion towards homeless individuals and dispels misconceptions about homelessness. He expresses gratitude for the support he received from The Ferry Project, which helped him turn his life around and find stability.
Websites
ferryproject.org.uk
anglianwater.co.uk
wisbechtowncouncil.gov.uk
Takeaways
Employment in rural areas, such as Wisbech, faces challenges due to factors like mechanization, lack of connectivity, and limited job opportunities.
The absence of a railway station and poor transport links hinder employment prospects and economic growth in rural areas.
Employers struggle to attract skilled workers locally, while employees face issues like low wages, part-time work, and insecure contracts.
Regeneration, the development of medium-sized businesses, a wider range of jobs, and increased apprenticeships are crucial for improving employment prospects in rural areas.
Addressing the complex issue of rural homelessness requires not only providing housing but also supporting individuals in finding stable employment and rebuilding their lives.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction00:35 Guest Introduction: Russell Beale and Terry Jordan03:25 The Impact of Connectivity on Employment in Wisbech05:23 The Struggles Faced by Employers and Employees in Rural Areas09:43 Attracting Graduates Back to Rural Areas13:56 The Role of Regeneration in Improving Employment Prospects18:14 The Importance of Apprenticeships and Support for Homeless Individuals22:31 The Link Between Employment Prospects and Rural Homelessness30:38 Hopes and Dreams for Employment in Rural Areas36:08 Conclusion
 

ep6 Ed's Story: Challenges faced by Homeless People

In this episode of the Rural Homelessness Podcast, host Matt McChlery speaks with Ed, who shares his personal experience of homelessness. Ed discusses the challenges he faced while being homeless, including the cycle of crime and imprisonment to have a roof over his head. He also highlights the difficulties of finding basic necessities like food and shelter while living on the streets. Ed emphasizes the importance of understanding and compassion towards homeless individuals and dispels misconceptions about homelessness. He expresses gratitude for the support he received from The Ferry Project, which helped him turn his life around and find stability.
Website
ferryproject.org.uk
Takeaways
Homelessness is not a choice for many individuals, and it is important to dispel misconceptions and stereotypes about homeless people.
Living on the streets presents numerous challenges, including finding food, shelter, and basic necessities.
Support from organizations like The Ferry Project can make a significant difference in helping homeless individuals turn their lives around and find stability.
Understanding and compassion from the public can go a long way in supporting homeless individuals and helping them reintegrate into society.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Rural Homelessness Podcast01:28 Ed's Experience of Homelessness03:25 Challenges Faced on the Streets06:05 Finding Support at The Ferry Project09:02 Settling into Life at The Ferry Project10:03 Highlights and Progress at The Ferry Project11:29 Misconceptions about Homelessness12:28 Compassion and Highlights from Strangers15:25 The Importance of Understanding Homelessness16:01 Life After Homelessness17:29 Hopes for the Future18:57 The Impact of The Ferry Project20:25 Conclusion and Call to Action
 
 

ep5 How Modular Housing Can Address Rural Homelessness

In this episode of the Rural Homelessness Podcast, Matt McChlery discusses how modular housing can help address rural homelessness. He is joined by Lewis Herbert, the manager of Allia Future Homes, and Daniel Renn, the Allia Future Homes Housing Development Lead. They explain that modular housing involves constructing sections of a building in a factory and then transporting them to the site for assembly. Modular housing offers benefits such as speed, cost-effectiveness, quality control, sustainability, and flexibility. It can be used in various sectors, including housing for the homeless. The challenges of modular housing include overcoming the stigma and lack of awareness, navigating building codes and regulations, and transportation logistics. The hope for the future of modular housing is mainstream acceptance, supportive policies, innovation, and wider use to address the housing shortage and homelessness crisis.
Websites
ferryproject.org.uk
Allia Future Homes website
Takeaways
Modular housing involves constructing sections of a building in a factory and then transporting them to the site for assembly.
Modular housing offers benefits such as speed, cost-effectiveness, quality control, sustainability, and flexibility.
Modular housing can be used in various sectors, including housing for the homeless.
Challenges of modular housing include overcoming stigma and lack of awareness, navigating building codes and regulations, and transportation logistics.
The hope for the future of modular housing is mainstream acceptance, supportive policies, innovation, and wider use to address the housing shortage and homelessness crisis.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Rural Homelessness Podcast
01:05 Introduction to Alia Future Homes
06:57 Problems and Challenges in the Current Housing Situation
11:43 Benefits of Modular Housing
13:09 Affordability of Modular Homes
15:06 Modular Housing for the Homeless
21:11 Use of Modular Housing in Jubilee Place
24:05 Modular Housing for Rural Homelessness
26:14 Challenges and Hopes for the Future of Modular Housing
29:10 Call for Support and Collaboration

ep4 The Impact of Mental Health on Rural Homelessness

In this episode of the Rural Homelessness Podcast, Matt McChlery discusses the topic of mental health and its impact on people who have experienced rural homelessness. He interviews Marianne Watson, the Integrated Neighbourhood Program Manager for the Fenland Locality for the NHS, and Coryn Price, an NHS Community Psychiatric Nurse. They discuss the high prevalence of mental health conditions among homeless individuals, the challenges of accessing mental health services in rural areas, and the need for innovative solutions such as mobile outreach services.
Links
ferryproject.org.uk
Takeaways
People who have experienced homelessness are likely to have poor mental health as a result of their experiences.
Accessing mental health services in rural areas can be challenging due to limited transportation and digital connectivity.
Mobile outreach services that provide a one-stop-shop for support, including mental health care, could be an effective solution for reaching homeless individuals in rural areas.
Building trust and engagement with homeless individuals is crucial for providing effective support.
There is a need for more funding and resources to sustain and expand programs that support homeless individuals with mental health issues.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:28 Guest Introductions
01:27 The Impact of Mental Health on Rural Homelessness
08:42 Hidden Nature of Rural Homelessness
13:26 Building Trust and Engagement with Homeless Individuals
23:22 Innovative Solutions: Mobile Outreach Services
26:04 Conclusion
 

ep3 John's Journey: From Homelessness to Hope

John shares his personal experience of homelessness, the challenges he faced, and the support he received from The Ferry Project. He discusses the impact of rural homelessness and the unique approach of The Ferry Project in providing hope and transformation. John's journey from homelessness to becoming a staff member at The Ferry Project is a testament to the organization's success in changing lives.
Website
ferryproject.org.uk
Takeaways
Personal experience of rural homelessness and the challenges faced
The impact of The Ferry Project in providing hope and transformation
John's journey from homelessness to becoming a staff member at The Ferry Project is a testament to the organization's success in changing lives
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rural Homelessness Podcast
03:10 Challenges of Homelessness and Hope
07:35 Impact of Rural Homelessness
11:32 The Journey to The Ferry Project
15:53 Transformation and Pride
 

ep2 Exploring the Differences and Similarities between Urban and Rural Homelessness

In this episode of the Rural Homelessness Podcast, host Matt McChlery discusses the differences and similarities between urban and rural homelessness with Christina Isaac, CEO of Just Home's charity, and Keith Smith, Director of The Ferry Project. They explore the challenges they face in their respective settings, such as lack of affordable accommodation, limited access to services, and the need for support in areas like mental health and employment. They also discuss the importance of social enterprises in providing sustainable funding and services for homeless individuals.
Links
ferryproject.org.uk
justhomes.org.uk
 
Takeaways
Rural and urban homelessness present different challenges, such as lack of affordable accommodation in urban areas and limited access to services in rural areas.
Both rural and urban homelessness charities face the need for support in areas like mental health, employment, and basic necessities like food and shelter.
Social enterprises can provide sustainable funding and services for homeless individuals, but they require community support and engagement.
Collaboration and coordination between different organizations and agencies is crucial to effectively address homelessness in both rural and urban areas.
Improving access to affordable housing and developing comprehensive support services are key goals for homelessness charities in the next five years.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:29 Differences and Similarities between Urban and Rural Homelessness
06:04 Challenges Faced by Homelessness Charities in Urban and Rural Areas
32:54 Collaboration and Coordination: Keys to Addressing Homelessness in Rural and Urban Areas
38:48 Goals for the Future: Improving Access to Affordable Housing and Comprehensive Support Services
51:28 Conclusion

ep1 Challenging the Misconception: Rural Homelessness in the UK

The Rural Homelessness Podcast, hosted by Matt McChlery, aims to raise awareness about rural homelessness in the UK. In the first episode, Matt interviews Keith Smith, the director of The Ferry Project, a homelessness charity based in Wisbech. Keith explains that the podcast was started to challenge the misconception that homelessness is only an urban problem and to highlight the prevalence of rural homelessness. The Ferry Project provides accommodation and support to homeless individuals, with a focus on creating a family-like environment. Over the past 25 years, they have supported over 3,500 people and have become the primary homeless provider for Fenland District Council. They also offer preventative services, employment support, and operate a community centre. The podcast will continue to explore various themes related to rural homelessness.
Website
ferryproject.org.uk
Takeaways
Rural homelessness is a significant issue in the UK, and The Ferry Project aims to raise awareness about it through their podcast.
The Ferry Project provides accommodation and support to homeless individuals, with a focus on creating a family-like environment.
They have supported over 3,500 people in the past 25 years and have become the primary homeless provider for Fenland District Council.
In addition to housing, The Ferry Project offers preventative services, employment support, and operates a community centre.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Rural Homelessness Podcast
02:55 Challenging the Misconception: Rural Homelessness
25:39 Supporting Over 3,500 People: The Impact of The Ferry Project
37:00 Beyond Housing: Preventative Services and Employment Support

Trailer for the Rural Homelessness Podcast

A short trailer introducing the theme and some of the topics to be covered on this ground-breaking podcast that seeks to elevate the national conversation around the neglected issue of rural homelessness.
Subscribe now and tune in to the Rural Homelessness Podcast on the 1st and 15th of the month.