Keeley Thornton, 34, known by the community as “Sheffield Keeley” was found unconscious by Arundel Gate on the 14th of January where her memorial now lies.
Known for her videos on social media platforms, especially Tik Tok, and her presence around areas popular for student nightlife, her absence is felt as students return to Sheffield after the Christmas break.
We spoke to a student from University of Sheffield, she said, “I heard of Keeley from Tik Toks and the ‘fun’ she brought students on West street”
She added, “since coming back to Sheffield, my perception has taken a sour turn”
“Posting Sheffield Keely but ignoring the fact she was a homeless person struggling with substance abuse, this was not looked upon when drunken students approached her,
Reflecting on the Tik Tok accounts, it was never reached with a seriousness to help her.”
West Street Live paid tribute to her on Wednesday 23rd January by playing songs she was known for singing.
But there are at least 1500 people sleeping rough or homeless in Sheffield who suffer as Keeley did but without the coverage.
Sheffield has become the city in Yorkshire with the highest rate of homelessness, with at least 31 people sleeping rough every night, and 1482 in temporary accommodation in the last year.
The number of children and vulnerable adults in temporary accommodation has increased by 17% since 2020, with around 400 young people staying in bed and breakfasts and shelters across the city.
Despite the council reporting an increase in applications for permanent housing by 500 compared to the previous year, there have been no immediate actions put in place.
However, Sheffield City council did announce their Housing and Accommodation Strategy on October the 16th 2024.
Despite collaborating with the people of Sheffield regarding solutions for affordable permanent housing, this has been presented as a 10 year plan, making it unlikely that any immediate changes will be put in place to aid those currently homeless or living on the streets.
However, charities around Sheffield do their best to improve life for those currently homeless, whilst looking for quick yet appropriate housing solutions.
Last academic year the Archer project organised the “wish you were here” exhibition in the student union to raise awareness of street homelessness to the student body. This charity strives to offer pathways away from homelessness, acting as a silver lining amongst the unfortunate homelessness crisis in the city.
Despite the awareness raised and the work done by these amazing charities, the rates of homelessness are only increasing in Sheffield.
Written by Charley Sands & Millicent Corcoran
