PM goes extra mile for homelessness charity

A charity supporting people experiencing homelessness has received a fundraising boost after the Prime Minister completed the Great North Run.

Andy Burnham took on the 13.1-mile route from Newcastle to South Shields in aid of Changing Lives, wearing the charity’s running top alongside thousands of fellow participants.

His run followed a visit to Changing Lives’ supported accommodation service in Newcastle on August 19, where he met people with experience of homelessness and staff supporting them.

The visit coincided with the launch of the Government’s Everyone In for Christmas drive, which aims to help people move off the streets.

The Prime Minister said: “A few weeks back I visited Alex's Place in Newcastle to launch our drive to offer everyone a route off the streets by Christmas. 

“I sat down with residents over a cup of tea and heard what it actually takes to rebuild a life once you’ve lost everything – not just a roof, but people who stick with you while you find your feet again. 

“That's what Changing Lives does.

“Tackling homelessness is a moral mission for me. 

“It's why I promised to end rough sleeping on my first day as PM, and why I’m proud to pull on a Changing Lives shirt today. 

“If you can spare a few quid, please chip in and support them.”

Changing Lives welcomed the initiative while highlighting the importance of providing ongoing support alongside a safe place to live.

Money raised through the Prime Minister’s Great North Run effort will support the charity’s frontline services, which work with people facing the challenges of homelessness across England.

The charity provides specialist support aimed at helping people overcome barriers, build stability and make lasting changes to their lives.

Stephen Bell OBE, chief executive of Changing Lives, added: “We’re delighted that Andy is running for Changing Lives and grateful to everyone who gets behind him.

“When he visited our service in Newcastle, he heard directly from people about their experiences of homelessness and the support that has helped them move forward.

“A safe place to stay is the start. 

“People also need someone they can trust, practical help and support that continues as they rebuild their lives.

“Our colleagues provide that support every day.

“By donating to Changing Lives, you can help fund this work and be there for people facing homelessness.

“Thank you to Andy and to everyone running, donating and cheering on our team.”

To support Andy Burnham’s Great North Run fundraising for Changing Lives, donations can still be made here.

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