Demand a commitment to homeless people's health
- by: St Mungo's
- recipient: Secretary of State for Health
Homelessness is a health issue.
People who are homeless experience some of the worst health in society, yet often struggle to access the healthcare they need. Mental and physical health problems for people who are homeless often remain untreated until a health crisis requires urgent care.
The average age of someone who dies while homeless is 47. For women it is just 43. These shocking health inequalities have no place in our society.
With a new government in power, this is our chance to demand a commitment to better healthcare for homeless people. Sign our petition and urge the Secretary of State for Health to make homeless health a priority so that all homeless people can access appropriate healthcare when they need it most.
Join our campaign for better healthcare for homeless people. Ask the Secretary of State for Health and the rest of the new government to make homeless health a priority.
Dear [Secretary of State for Health],
I am counting on you to make homeless health a priority.
Homelessness is a health issue. People who are homeless experience some of the worst health in society, yet often struggle to access the healthcare they need, when they need it.
To address these health inequalities, I am calling on you to ensure there is a clear and coordinated strategy across all levels of the health service and Whitehall so that:
- No one is excluded from health services because they are homeless.;
- No one is barred from mental health treatment because they are struggling to tackle drug or alcohol issues; and
- No one is discharged from hospital onto the street.
[Your comments]
Thank you,
[Your name]
