William praises ‘unconditional care’ for homelessness workers

The Prince of Wales has paid tribute to the “unconditional care, compassion and humanity” shown by workers in the homelessness sector.

William met with staff working as hostel managers, mental health nurses and housing workers in Aberdeen during a trip to the city to personally thank them for their “enormous and invaluable contribution”.

At the event, held in a former church, the Prince told guests: “As you all know, homelessness is a complex issue and the diversity of roles and responsibilities currently in the field reflects this.

“And just like our first responders, you are the people who are there for others when they need it most, providing unconditional care, compassion and humanity.”

In 2023, the future king, known in Scotland as the Duke of Rothesay, launched the ambitious Homewards project, which aims to develop a plan to end homelessness in all its forms, “making it rare, short-lived and unique”.

Six Homewards sites have been selected – Newport, Lambeth, Belfast, Aberdeen, Sheffield and three neighbouring Dorset towns: Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch – with the aim of providing bespoke solutions to homelessness in each area.

Homewards Aberdeen hosted a lunch for representatives from the homelessness sector, which gave them the opportunity to network and meet William, who joined guests at their tables.

“It was a privilege to meet some of you and hear about the challenges you face, as well as your ideas for what more Homewards can do to support the sector.”

When the Prince joined one group of guests, a woman said it was the first time she had been in a room with an architect, to which William replied: “People want to help, they just don’t know how”, emphasising the importance of bringing together different elements of the sector.

Earlier, William saw first-hand the frustrations of homeless people when he visited Shelter Scotland offices in Aberdeen.

A former homeless man has described how he overcame his problems, became a volunteer with Shelter Scotland and now works for the charity as a housing rights worker, helping others experiencing similar problems.

Aberdeen City Council last month said the region was in a housing crisis, following the Scottish Government’s announcement in May of a nationwide housing crisis.

Dan Fyffe-Jardin, Shelter Scotland’s head of communities, said the number of children “trapped” in temporary shelters had doubled in the past year.

He said it was “fantastic” to see the prince congratulating his crew.

Mr Fyffe-Jardin added: “It’s absolutely incredible – all of our staff are everyday superheroes, right in the middle of the housing crisis.

“It’s just fantastic for our crew to have a moment like that and get a bit of recognition.”

William’s visit to Scotland also saw the announcement that Blue Light Card has become a new official supporter or “activator” of the Homewards scheme, alongside Pret A Manger and Homebase.

Blue Light Card – the leading discount scheme for the emergency services, NHS, social care sector and armed forces – has now expanded its scope to include homelessness workers.