On Monday 10 June, 2024, Groundswell, a leading charity dedicated to tackling health inequality, announced the launch of a new campaign to address the stark reality that the average life expectancy for a person experiencing homelessness is just 44 years old, often due to preventable diseases such as diabetes. As part of Diabetes Awareness Week, the charity is taking action to help individuals manage long-term health conditions, regardless of their circumstances.
To mark the launch of this crucial campaign, Groundswell hosted a conversation between Game of Thrones actor Gethin Anthony and Homeless Health Caseworker Mark Leonard. The two discussed the intersection of homelessness, health, and their personal experiences with diabetes.
According to statistics, more than one in five people experiencing homelessness live with diabetes. However, many are forced to manage the disease with little support or access to health services. This is why Groundswell is taking action during Diabetes Awareness Week, from June 10th to 16th.
Mark Leonard, a member of Groundswell’s Homeless Health Peer Advocacy (HHPA) team, shared a personal story about a man with type 1 diabetes who was rough sleeping and had to store his insulin in a local canal in Camden to keep it cold. Through Groundswell’s support, the man was able to secure accommodation and now has access to a fridge to store his medication. This is just one example of the vital work that the HHPA team does to help people experiencing homelessness get the care they need.
In the past year, Groundswell’s HHPA team in London has supported over 500 people experiencing homelessness to manage their health, helped individuals attend over 2,300 essential health appointments, and organized more than 280 health events at hostels and day centers.
Gethin Anthony, an ambassador for Groundswell, spoke about the challenges of managing diabetes while experiencing homelessness and the importance of the work that Groundswell does. He encouraged people to make donations to support the charity’s life-saving and life-changing initiatives.
Michael Chandler, CEO of Groundswell, stressed the importance of everyone having the right to good health. He stated, “Homelessness is a health issue, and we know people are dying from preventable illnesses and conditions, with diabetes being one of them. It’s essential we reverse this trend.”
To support Groundswell’s crucial work, donations can be made at: https://bit.ly/4aRAKDn. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness and help them access the healthcare they need and deserve.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.