In an inspiring collaborative effort, the digital community in the North West is coming together to tackle the pressing issue of homelessness in Greater Manchester.
Through the event named #homelesshack, technologists, digital agencies, and experts will unite to create innovative solutions aimed at providing support for those experiencing life on the street.
The #homelesshack event, taking place from June 30 to July 1, is an essential convergence of digital professionals driven by a common cause. Organised by Manchester Digital alongside Sigma and Valtech, the initiative aims to draw on the expertise of researchers, policymakers, and subject matter experts.
Together, they will focus on harnessing technology and open data to explore novel approaches to addressing homelessness.
The selected projects promise to build upon the efforts of existing organisations like Street Support. With digital innovation at its core, the event seeks to harness the potential of technology to create actionable and sustainable solutions to homelessness.
Homelessness in Greater Manchester has surged, with recent data indicating a 40 per cent increase in rough sleeping within the last year.
Shelter, a homeless charity, reports that 189 individuals are currently sleeping rough, compared to 134 in 2015.
This alarming trend underscores the urgency of innovative interventions and the importance of events like #homelesshack in fostering solutions.
Katie Gallagher, Managing Director of Manchester Digital, emphasises the digital community’s eagerness to make a difference, citing the pressing need to address rough sleeping in the region.
By pooling their expertise and resources, participants aspire to devise ideas that can complement ongoing efforts in Manchester.
Collaboration and shared goals are the driving force behind this endeavour, reflecting a community committed to effecting change.
Hilary Stephenson of Sigma points out the complexity of homelessness, highlighting that its varied nature calls for diverse solutions.
Participants from a mix of backgrounds will bring their skills to the table, aiming to produce a range of innovative ideas and practical prototypes.
With guidance from experienced hackers, attendees will find ample support and opportunity to engage in creative problem-solving.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, acknowledges the innovative spirit of the region, noting its reputation as the “Silicon Valley of Europe.”
He expresses hope that the #homelesshack will yield practical solutions that leverage the area’s technological prowess to improve lives.
The mayor’s support highlights the potential for digital innovation to tackle social problems effectively.
The event will be held at Valtech UK’s offices in Basil Chambers on High Street, Manchester.
, Starting at 10am on June 30, the event is free but limited to 80 participants.
The #homelesshack represents a promising fusion of technology and community effort, aimed at crafting feasible solutions for homelessness.
As Greater Manchester continues to confront this growing crisis, the collaboration of digital innovators offers a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of collective action.