What is Street Outreach?
Street outreach services are organised by volunteer teams who provide food, hot drinks, clothing and other essential items directly to homeless and vulnerable people on the streets. These services are a vital part of the Leeds Food Aid Network, offering immediate support to those who may not be able to access food banks or drop-in centres.
Outreach teams not only provide immediate material support but also build trusting relationships, offer information and advice, and help people access longer-term support services when needed.
Street outreach services provide:
- Hot meals & drinks: Hot meals, sandwiches, snacks, coffee, tea and other beverages
- Basic essentials: Hygiene products, warm clothing, sleeping bags and emergency packs
- Information & referrals: Details about accommodation, healthcare and other support services
- Friendly interaction: Human connection and emotional support to reduce isolation
Street Outreach Teams in Leeds
Below are the main street outreach teams operating in Leeds. Each provides services at specific times and locations, working together to ensure street support is available every night of the week.
Homeless Street Angels
Homeless Street Angels is a charity founded by sisters Becky and Shelley Joyce, operating every Thursday evening in Leeds city centre. They not only provide hot meals and essentials but also actively help rough sleepers find accommodation and rebuild their lives.
Salvation Army Street Outreach
The Salvation Army street outreach team uses a dedicated outreach vehicle to provide support at multiple locations in Leeds city centre. In addition to food and essentials, they offer information about their day centre where more comprehensive support is available.
Simon on the Streets
Simon on the Streets is an independent charity focused on supporting long-term rough sleepers and people facing complex issues. Their outreach work emphasises building long-term relationships and providing emotional support, using an unconditional positive support approach.
Homeless Street Support
Homeless Street Support is a volunteer-run organisation providing support to rough sleepers every Sunday evening in Leeds city centre. They not only provide food and items but also organise special events like Christmas meals and birthday celebrations to bring dignity and belonging to homeless people.
Street Outreach Timetable
The following timetable shows street outreach services available each night of the week in Leeds city centre:
Salvation Army (pm)
19:30-21:30
City Square, Park Row
Please Note
Street outreach service times and locations may change due to weather conditions or other factors. If you need to confirm service details, we recommend contacting the organisations directly or checking their social media pages for updates.
How to Access Street Outreach Support
If you or someone you know needs support from street outreach services, here's how to access help:
Check the timetable
Use the timetable above to see which outreach teams are operating when you need help.
Go to the service location
Visit the location at the specified time. Outreach teams typically patrol main areas in the city centre.
Contact teams directly
If you can't reach a service location, you can phone or email these organisations to ask when and where they can provide support.
Learn about other available services
These outreach teams can also provide information about day centres, accommodation options and other support services.
How to Support Street Outreach Work
Street outreach teams rely on community support and volunteer dedication to provide their services. If you'd like to support this vital work, there are several ways to help:
- Volunteer to participate directly in street outreach
- Donate food, drinks, clothing, sleeping bags or hygiene products
- Provide financial support to help maintain services
- Share information about these services to help people in need know what's available
- Advocate for better homeless support services and housing policies
If you're interested in supporting any street outreach team, please contact the organisations directly to learn about specific needs and volunteering opportunities.