The charity can trace its routes back to a day in early December 1966, when a group of people got together to do something about the nation's homeless people. A few evenings earlier the BBC had broadcast 'Cathy Come Home', the drama documentary which showed the devastating effects of homelessness on a family's life.

What does Shelter believe in?

"Everyone should be able to live in a decent and secure home that they can afford, within a mixed neighbourhood where people feel safe, can work and fulfil their potential," they say. 

Shelter tries to realise this by providing free, professional and independent advice through its network of Housing Aid Centres, projects and surgeries. Last year, Shelter helped over 100,000 homeless people find better places to live.

The charity also actively lobbies government and other decision-makers into putting more resources towards solving housing problems.

Some of the ways Shelter can help you

Shelter runs two good housing advice sites with information and help on homelessness, rented accomodation, buying and selling homes, money and benefits and many other housing problems.

Updated: 19/06/2009