How A 2020 Grassroots Effort Became A Lifeline For The Homeless In England – Founder

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The Founder of BIGMOVE Charity, Dr. Olumide Ojo, has disclosed that the story of the successful charity organisation in the United Kingdom began in 2020.

BIGMOVE Charity is a non-governmental organisation that supports homeless individuals across England by providing: food, clothing, bedding, toiletries, and emergency essentials; support to access safe accommodation and community services; resettlement support for people moving into new homes; employability programmes to improve access to work; digital skills training to reduce exclusion; and mentorship and life skills support to build confidence and independence.

In a recent interview with journalists, Ojo described the journey as one of compassion, sacrifice, and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to rebuild their life with dignity.

He said the organisation was formerly known as Frontstep Manchester, a community-focused organisation supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, housing insecurity, and social disadvantage.

According to Ojo, it became more than a housing support service — it became a lifeline, which created the need to move forward.

“The story of BIGMOVE did not begin as a charity. It began in 2020 through the dedicated work of FRONTSTEP MANCHESTER, a community-focused organisation supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, housing insecurity, and social disadvantage.

“As Director of FRONTSTEP MANCHESTER, I witnessed first-hand the challenges faced by people who had lost their homes, confidence, employment, and support networks.

“Alongside a committed team, we stepped forward to provide accommodation support, essential supplies, guidance, and hope to those who needed it most.

“Over the years, FRONTSTEP MANCHESTER became more than a housing support service — it became a lifeline.

“We met individuals who arrived with nothing more than the clothes they were wearing. Some had been sleeping rough, some were escaping difficult circumstances, and others simply needed someone to believe they could start again. We supported them with food, clothing, bedding, toiletries, tenancy guidance, life skills, and encouragement to take the next step forward.

“However, as the needs of our community grew, so did the challenges.

“Many people entering accommodation had no financial resources, no household items, and limited ability to immediately manage the costs associated with independent living. FRONTSTEP MANCHESTER often absorbed these pressures — covering unpaid bills, essential items, and emergency support through personal contributions and organisational resources, because turning people away was never an option.

“Over time, the increasing costs and debts incurred in supporting vulnerable service users showed us something important: goodwill alone was not enough.

“To protect and expand this vital work, we needed a dedicated charitable organisation capable of reaching wider communities, building partnerships, and attracting resources.

“That vision became BIGMOVE Charity,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Founder announced a new project “Skills For Life, Stories For The Future,” which focuses on empowering people beyond homelessness.