Statement from Dr Zahid Chauhan, creator of the Homeless-Friendly programme following his receipt of the Business Solving and Social Problem category at the GM Asian Business Leaders Awards 2018
“I am absolutely delighted and humbled to have received this award as it recognises and rewards the work being done by Homeless-Friendly to achieve excellent healthcare for the most vulnerable in our society.
Rough sleepers, those in temporary accommodation and anyone experiencing the heartbreak of homelessness can now be assured that they will be seen and treated in many areas of Greater Manchester, without the need to prove a permanent address. And that is essential, given that homeless people are experiencing significant health problems from malnutrition through to hypothermia and dangerous infections, which should be treated without the need for a visit to emergency departments.
Although a fairly new programme, Homeless-Friendly has had a significant impact and has been an inspiration to so many. That is due to the support of its pioneering partners and the dedication of our staff.
We should be mindful however, that on the day we received this award, charity CentrePoint reported that nearly 20,000 young people could be homeless this Christmas.
There is still so much to do to alleviate the scourge of homelessness, even if we are now at least better at providing healthcare for those in need.”