For nearly 40 years, SPEAR has been a lifeline for people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness across London. Working across six London boroughs, including Richmond Upon Thames, the charity plays a vital role in helping individuals move away from the streets and toward lasting independence. Through outreach, tailored accommodation, specialist health services and long‑term support, SPEAR’s mission remains clear: to help end homelessness and empower people to rebuild their lives.
SPEAR’s story began almost 40 years ago with Richmond resident Penny Wade, who was compelled to take action after the tragic deaths of two men sleeping rough along the River Thames. What started as a grassroots effort has evolved into a highly respected organisation delivering holistic, person‑centred support to hundreds of people each year.
Supporting the Richmond Community
Within Richmond upon Thames, SPEAR focuses on assisting individuals who are experiencing homelessness or on the brink of it. Their work ranges from finding people sleeping rough to providing safe accommodation, guiding individuals through mental health challenges, and building pathways to independent living. The charity’s approach is deeply rooted in dignity, wellbeing, and long‑term stability.
One of the most powerful examples of SPEAR’s impact is Nuno’s story. After losing his job and home during the pandemic, Nuno faced homelessness and addiction. When SPEAR’s Outreach team found him, everything began to change. Through tailored support, he rebuilt his life and now volunteers with SPEAR, using his lived experience to help others on the same path.
His words capture the heart of SPEAR’s approach:
“Through peer-to-peer support, my lived experience has become my greatest strength. The human approach at SPEAR helped me feel seen- not just as a statistic, but as a person”.
Tackling the Colder Months
Seasonality is also a big factor when it comes to the charity’s work. Each winter, SPEAR steps up its efforts to protect people sleeping rough. When temperatures drop below freezing, the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is activated by the Greater London Authority. SPEAR’s Outreach teams work through the night across Richmond and neighbouring boroughs, ensuring people can access warmth, shelter, and safety - support that can genuinely save lives.
In 2024/25 alone, SPEAR supported 708 people across South West London. Their achievements included finding 410 people rough sleeping, providing supported accommodation to 238 individuals, and helping 267 people improve their health through the Health Link Service. They also supported 60 young people aged 17–25 and delivered 24 Health and Wellbeing Days.
How Can Be Richmond Business Members Help?
SPEAR collaborates with businesses across all sectors, creating partnerships that make a tangible difference while offering meaningful engagement opportunities for employees. Donations of any size help transform the lives of people facing homelessness. The charity also relies on the support of volunteers, each of whom play a crucial role in SPEAR’s work. Opportunities include:
• Assisting at Health and Wellbeing Days
• Offering skills in digital marketing, social media or office support
• Helping maintain SPEAR properties through DIY or decorating
• Supporting awareness activities at community events
There’s also a lot of fun to be had when fundraising for SPEAR. Coming up next month, the charity is looking for people to take part in the London Walk (Friday 20 March), a night walk through the city, raising awareness and money for London’s homelessness charities.
Or if you prefer something a little less physical, why not book yourself a ticket for a night of live music at the Cabbage Patch pub in Twickenham? High Tide Festival and Eel Pie Record Shop have chosen SPEAR as their charity partner for High Tide Ripple on Wednesday 18 February – an evening of brilliant music and social connection.
For more information about how to get involved with SPEAR’s fundraising efforts please email fundraising@spearlondon.org
Looking Ahead
Over the coming year, SPEAR remains focused on continuing its vital efforts in Richmond: providing outreach, secure accommodation, tenancy support and health services. Their goal is unwavering - to be there when people need them most, and to help individuals build lasting independence and stability.
