Posted26.11.25
Winter Appeal: Help Us Provide Trauma-Informed Mental Health Support
This winter, we’re doing more than ever to address the trauma that leads to and results from homelessness.
Homelessness is rarely just about housing. It’s about the experiences that push someone into crisis: family breakdown, bereavement, job loss, domestic abuse, or other events that leave deep psychological wounds. Once someone becomes homeless, new trauma often follows. At Evolve, 76% of the people staying with us have a mental health condition related to trauma.
That’s why this year, for UK Giving Week (1–5 December), we are raising vital funds to provide specialist trauma-informed mental health support the kind of help that enables people to heal, rebuild their confidence, and move forward into stable, fulfilling lives.
Donate now via our JustGiving page.
Why Trauma-Informed Mental Health Support Matters
For many who have experienced trauma, everyday situations can become overwhelming triggers.
A walk down the street, a particular scent, or even a casual conversation can suddenly bring back memories that feel impossible to cope with.
Trauma shapes how a person sees the world and themselves. It influences behaviour, decisions, relationships, and the ability to plan for the future. When every day feels like survival, recovery from homelessness becomes even harder.
That’s why we offer a full range of trauma-informed therapeutic support from trained mental health professionals, tailored help that meets people where they are, and moves at the pace they need.
EMDR: Life-Changing Therapy When People Need It Most
One of the key therapies we provide is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) a transformative treatment that helps people process traumatic memories safely and effectively.
Through guided eye movements, tapping or auditory tones, EMDR helps the brain shift painful memories from “present danger” to “past event.”
The outcome is powerful:
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Less anxiety, shame, and fear
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A sense of control returning
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Beliefs like “I am worthy” and “I can grow” becoming possible again
Many people feel relief after just one session. But accessing EMDR through public health services can take over a year, time that someone experiencing homelessness simply cannot afford to wait.
Your support means we can provide this therapy immediately, within our services, when it’s needed most.
Rebuilding a Life After Trauma
After losing their home due to a Section 21 eviction and struggling with their health and employment, Jecs arrived at our Palmer House service in crisis.
“When I arrived, I was a mess. When I had my initial assessment, I wasn’t even verbal. There was too much going on in my head, and I couldn’t express myself.”
With the support of Evolve’s therapist Neetu, Jecs began EMDR therapy and everything started to shift. Over time, they processed past trauma, reduced the impact of PTSD, and regained stability.
Workshops and wellbeing activities also helped Jecs reconnect with community and purpose.
“These extra things at Evolve help people here feel normal. When you become homeless, you don’t feel human anymore. You can teach someone how to budget, manage health, or maintain housing but if they’re not okay mentally, they will return, and you’ll just have a cycle.”
Today, Jecs is working with young people in Croydon, helping them navigate emotions, anxiety, and trauma.
“My goal is to eventually work full-time with young people. This work gives me purpose and allows me to give back while I continue to heal.”
How You Can Help This Winter
During UK Giving Week (1–5 December), your donation will directly fund life-changing, trauma-informed mental health support for people experiencing homelessness in London.
Every contribution helps us provide:
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1-to-1 therapy
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EMDR sessions
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Emotional wellbeing workshops
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Crisis intervention
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Practical support to rebuild confidence and independence
Whatever you can give, it will make a real difference.
Donate today via our JustGiving page
Be there with us — whatever it takes, for as long as it takes.
Thank you for standing with people rebuilding their lives after homelessness.
