Here you’ll find answers about our work at The Winchester Beacon, the support we offer in Winchester and Hampshire, and how you can get involved. You’ll find information on our accommodation, referral process, volunteering, donations, and ways to help locally.
Understanding homelessness in Winchester and Hampshire
What are the main causes of homelessness?
Homelessness has many causes. Some people face several challenges at once. Common reasons include eviction, family breakdown, domestic abuse, poor mental health, job loss, or benefit delays. Rising rents and limited housing supply also play a major part.
Is homelessness a choice?
No. Homelessness results from complex social and economic pressures, not personal choice.
Are all people experiencing homelessness rough sleepers?
No. Many live in temporary housing, hostels, or stay with friends. Rough sleeping is only the most visible form.
Is help readily available in Hampshire?
Services exist but demand often exceeds supply. That’s why local charities like The Winchester Beacon and Trinity Winchester working in collaboration with local councils are vital.
How are the people that I see on the street in Winchester being helped?
Winchester has an outreach service which operates daily to support people sleeping on the streets. It offers advice, support and welfare checks from trained staff and volunteers.
Support and Services at The Winchester Beacon
What is The Winchester Beacon?
The Winchester Beacon is a local charity providing safe, supportive accommodation and tailored help for adults experiencing homelessness in Winchester and Hampshire. Open every day, we offer 10 private rooms at our main site plus 12 places in move-on houses.
Who can access your services?
Adults aged 18 and over experiencing homelessness in Winchester or nearby areas. Referrals come from councils, support services, or self-referrals.
How do I refer someone or access support?
Contact your local housing office. For help with the process, call 01962 862050 or email admin@winchesterbeacon.org.uk (office hours 9am–4pm).
What accommodation do you provide?
Each resident at our main site in Winchester has a single room with private bathroom. Communal spaces include a lounge and dining room. Staff are on site 24 hours. Our move on houses are four bedroom properties with shared communal areas.
What services do you provide?
Residents receive one-to-one support with housing, employment, and budgeting. We offer counselling, tenancy training, peer mentoring, life-skills sessions, and wellbeing activities.
Learn more about our services.
Are meals provided?
Yes. Breakfast and lunch are self-served. Volunteers cook and serve a home-made dinner each evening.
Volunteer with the meal service.
How long can someone stay?
The average stay is 167 days. We focus on long-term housing stability through our move-on houses and support plans.
Are pets allowed?
No, for health, safety, and insurance reasons.
Do residents pay to stay?
Yes, a rent and service charge. Support workers assist with benefit claims and budgeting.
Is it safe?
Yes. Residents sign a House Agreement. Drugs and alcohol are not permitted on site to ensure safety and staff are on site at all times.