Coronavirus: Appeal launched to support our rough sleepers amid coronavirus outbreak

But as the coronavirus outbreak spreads, places close and shoppers look inwardly to look after themselves and their families, many homeless people are being forgotten about.

Now, a call to action is urging members of the public to do their bit for those who have nothing.

Bev Saunders from Helping Hands – a charity that does food runs for the homeless in Commercial Road, Portsmouth – says rough sleepers are frightened of the unknown dangers they face.

She said: ‘We’re still out four times a week and are disinfecting everything we can, and giving out hand sanitiser to everyone.

‘Some think it’s a farce or not as bad as it is, but some are genuinely scared about it.’

Bev says people need to be selfless, not only by finding some spare food and drink for the city’s rough sleepers.

It comes as Alabare, a charity that supports homeless in Gosport, reminded people that the homeless are also more susceptible to the virus.

Operations manager Sue Gumbleton said: ‘Rough sleepers do not have access to the soap and water we are all using to help protect ourselves; they do not have the means to self-isolate.

‘The vast majority are more susceptible to illness and many have complex underlying health problems. If the virus does spread, homeless people could be the first to die.

‘We are getting people into our homes where we can support them if they fall ill, helping vulnerable and scared people to self-isolate, making sure they have a safe home, food and medication in this time of urgent need.’

The charity has launched an appeal on JustGiving for money to support rough sleepers during this time.

But Bev says people can go further, and directly help Portsmouth’s homeless.

She said: ‘Since everywhere they went has closed, they’re missing that sense of community.

‘Even just a chat with some of them will go a really long way.

‘But they also need supplies – things like chocolate, crisps and bottled drinks that they can stockpile for the days ahead.

‘Please just do what you can.’