A homelessness charity is calling on the community to help protect rough sleepers from the dangers of winter.
Turning Tides is appealing for support as it works to keep people off the streets during the coldest months of the year.
It comes as the charity marks the recent opening of Skywaves House, in Ivy Arch Road, Worthing, an innovative new project in the fight against homelessness.
Paul Nann, manager of Skywaves House, said: "Skywaves House offers something different.
"What makes this project truly innovative is the type of accommodation we offer.
"Instead of just providing a room, each resident has their own self-contained flat, complete with a kitchen, living room, bedroom and bathroom.
"This may not sound revolutionary at first, but for the people we support, many of whom have significant and complex needs, the opportunity to have this level of privacy, security and independence is life-changing.
"For the first time in years, our residents can shut their own front door at night and feel safe, with a space that truly belongs to them.
"This sense of security and autonomy gives them the breathing space they need to focus on rebuilding their lives and addressing the challenges that led to homelessness in the first place."
Officially opened in September this year, Skywaves House provides 21 self-contained flats for people who have been sleeping rough in West Sussex.
Each unit offers privacy and independence, along with access to round-the-clock support, including health care, counselling and training.
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Mr Nann said the response from residents has been deeply moving and credited the project’s success to the combined efforts of supporters, the local authority and partner agencies.
He said: "Our first 21 residents have already moved in, and the reactions have been deeply moving.
"None of this would have been possible without the dedication of Turning Tides supporters, the local authority and our partner agencies.
"Together, we’ve created something the whole community can be proud of, a project that will make a real and lasting difference to people’s lives and bring us one step closer to ending homelessness in West Sussex."
Despite the progress, Turning Tides says the need remains urgent.
In 2024, a record 1,611 people died while homeless in the UK.
While the charity housed 214 people over the past year, its hubs and outreach team supported more than 1,000 individuals across West Sussex.
Each winter, Turning Tides helps hundreds of people facing homelessness and the severe effects of poverty and isolation.
The charity relies on public donations to continue providing warm meals, safe accommodation, and essential support services.
This Christmas, you can give the gift of food, warmth, safety and hope.
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