Simon Allaby has recently produced a new book The Word on the Street featuring stories relating to real-life experiences of those who find themselves homeless and the struggles they face.

Simon is a Connexion Trustee and Minister at Bolney Village Chapel. He is also the author and narrator of The Connexion's weekly Short Thought, creating inspiring and informed stories in 60 second recordings.

The Word on the Street is designed to be given to those living on the streets or in temporary accommodation. It is priced at just £1 per copy, with discounts for quantities above 10, and even cheaper rates for bulk orders. Each book includes a section at the back for churches and charities to include their own information and contact details.

The book begins with a foreward by Julio Abraham, CEO of the Off the Fence Trust: 

Dear Friend,

Wherever you are reading this I want you to know that you matter. Whatever brought you to this moment, you're not alone.

I meet people like you every day, some sleeping rough, others sofa-surfing, many just one pay cheque away from losing everything. But I've also seen how lives can change, sometimes in ways we never expect.

Some of the stories you're about to read are about real people who faced real struggles. Like Charlie Chaplin, who spent time in a workhouse before anyone knew his name. Or the man in the suit who chose to live on the streets but still kept his dignity and family connections.

You might be feeling invisible right now, tired of systems that don't seem to care, of doors that keep closing, or of nights that feel endless. I hope that these stories will inspire you to keep going.

Across the UK, there are people and places ready to help. At the back of this book, you'll find information about local support - please do take a look to see what’s on offer.

Remember this: your current situation is just that. It's not permanent, and it's not who you are. You are precious, you are valued, and you are worthy of a better tomorrow.

With hope and care,

Julio Abraham

Off The Fence Trust
Chief Executive Officer 

The Word on the Street can be purchased from www.turn-the-page.co.uk/shop

(Priced at £1 per copy, with discounts for quantities above 10 and cheaper rates for bulk orders.)