In both the Jewish and Christian scriptures there are a series of merciful acts such as visiting the sick, feeding the hungry and housing the homeless.

They are a set of values that most human beings can sign up to. Sometimes though it seems that the problems in society are too big to deal with; especially issues like homelessness. One way to learn more about this particular issue is by coming to an event at the newly launched Plungington Community Centre, an innovative project by Caritas Care run by the local community at Brook Street, Preston, PR1 7NB.

Many people in Lancashire are facing a winter without a decent home to call their own. Concerned people in churches and neighbourhoods want to help.

If you are one of them this FREE event has been organised by Together Lancashire, Caritas Care and Methodist Action and is particularly aimed at people in churches in Lancashire who want to learn how they can make a difference in their local area. The organisation ‘Housing Justice’ has been invited to lead the day.

Housing Justice is a national charity that enables local groups and churches to provide practical help to people in housing need and works for change in housing policies at national and local level.

Alison Gelder and Alastair Murray from Housing Justice will address the national housing crisis.

Jon Kurht from the West London Mission will talk about his work on the front line.

Workshops will look at how we can see beyond the stereotypes of rough sleepers and homeless people, ask whether we need emergency night shelters and explore the roles of supported housing schemes. They will be led by expert practitioners from Lancashire and London.

Next time you see someone sleeping in a doorway or meet someone who is worried about losing their home, you might be able to point them to the people who can help. Hopefully, together we can make a difference for the better around the issue of homelessness: one person, one small act of mercy at a time.

If you want to come to the event pre-booking is essential and tickets can be ordered online in advance at www.homelessinpreston.org.uk or contact Ruth Morris (Methodist Action North West Ltd) on 01772 751000

Canon Andrea Titterington Lay Canon, Blackburn Cathedral