#1 Vagrants & Vagabonds: Introducing a History of Homelessness in Britain

600 Years of Homelessness

Have you ever thought about the fact that homelessness has a history? When did it start and where did it come from? Who were the people affected by homelessness in the past and what was life like for them? Journeying across 600 years of British history, we’re going to uncover answers to these questions.

This episode introduces us to the history of ‘vagrancy’ as we speak to historians who are digging into the archives; hear accounts from some of the earliest investigative journalists; and listen to modern-day experts – community workers and people with lived experience of homelessness. All the while, we ask the question: does understanding this history change the way we think, feel and respond to homelessness now?

Want to get in touch? Please do! You can email the podcast at [e-mail].

Click here for a transcript and information about the historical sources used in this episode: https://cutt.ly/UemVuqNd.

Cast & Credits

Writer, producer and narrator: Adela Davis.

Guests: Dr David Hitchcock, Prof Jane Hamlett, Prof Nick Crowson, Alv Hirst, Russel.

Cast: Tom, Conner.

Cover art: Camilla Storvik.

Music & sound effects:

• Folk Round | Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) | Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License.
• Laura Metcalf | J. S. Bach: Cello Suite No. 2 in D minor, BWV 1008 I. Prélude | courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com.

Next Steps

Not sure what to do when you see someone sleeping rough? This article from The Big Issue has some helpful tips for how to start a conversation. And this article addresses the question of whether or not you should give money.

Use the StreetLink website (England and Wales) to connect the local council outreach team with someone who is sleeping rough. All you need is a location, time, and brief description of the person.

Want to find out about local services and volunteering in your area (England)? There is a great database here: https://homeless.org.uk/homeless-england/.

Donate to a charity (e.g. Caring in Bristol, Shelter or Crisis) or buy The Big Issue from a local vendor.

Sign a petition or write to your local MP.

Check out the work of the Museum of Homelessness.