A SERVICE which provides health care and first aid for the homeless has been given a boost of more than £15,000.

The St John Ambulance- run scheme in Brighton runs outreach drop-in clinics in the city.

This £15,800 grant from the People’s Postcode Trust will be used to employ a podiatrist and buy special equipment to meet the needs of the homeless in the Brighton and Hove area.

St John Ambulance homeless service manager for Sussex Markie Barratt said: “Homeless people are some of the most vulnerable in our local community.

“Poor health and foot problems are a big issue and our outreach clinics prove to be invaluable for the homeless to access.

“Being out in all weathers makes it difficult to maintain good foot hygiene as they may be on their feet for long periods of time, and not have a change of socks.”