Over 70 professionals come together for homelessness and health event in the Black Country.
The ‘Making Connections in Homelessness and Health’ event, which took place on Wednesday 26 March, was hosted by the Good Shepherd in partnership with Homeless Link and the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB).
It provided a valuable opportunity for professionals from across the homelessness and health sectors in the Black Country to come together, share insights, and explore the vital connections between health inequalities and homelessness.
Participants heard from individuals with lived and living experience of homelessness through a live panel, and a video created by Good Shepherd, titled ‘Treat us with compassion’, was also shown to highlight the experience of people facing homelessness in Wolverhampton. You can view the video on YouTube here.
Participants took part in Q&As, workshops and discussed solutions to improve local systems and partnerships in the Black Country.
Tom Hayden, Chief Executive Officer at Good Shepherd, said: “The event was a great success, and actions are already being developed as a result of this event.
“We look forward to continuing conversations and sharing solutions over the coming months.”
Ste Terry, Head of Involvement at the NHS Black Country ICB, said: “Bringing together voices from health and homelessness services, alongside those with lived and living experience, was a powerful reminder that lasting change happens when we listen, learn, and act with kindness and compassion.
“To truly tackle homelessness, we must think beyond just ‘rough sleeping’ and focus on removing the barriers that prevent people from accessing support. Co-production is key - working alongside those with firsthand experience ensures we shape solutions that truly meet people’s needs.
“This event has sparked vital conversations, and we’re committed to building on this momentum to improve support across the Black Country.”
