BillyChip Tokens (a safe secure currency for homeless people)
BillyChip is a social enterprise that provides a a safe secure ‘currency’. In the form of a token that can be bought from participating shops to help homeless people and their dogs.
The idea was set up a young paramedic, who died in a motorbike accident in Thailand. Before his death, he had come up with the idea of providing tokens to help homeless people. So after his death, his loved ones decided to put his idea into action, as a suitable legacy.
Each chip carries an image of Billy’s smiling face, with a message that says ‘You’re fabulous. And don’t you ever forget it’ (the last words he wrote to his mum, on a Mother’s Day card before he died).
How does BillyChip work?
- Independent shops order a Welcome Pack that contains 25 BillyChips, window decals and marketing materials. The scheme is free to join (shops are just charged for chips sold).
- Anytime someone sees a homeless person on the street and wants to help – he or she can buy a token, and give it to the rough sleeper.
- The homeless person can then use the token to buy a hot drink at participating shops, or pet food.
- The chip also has a QR code, so people can find participating shops.
- Pubs and bars are not allowed to join, to avoid buying alcohol.
How to help homeless people on the street
If you see someone sleeping rough, send a report to StreetLink, whose outreach teams visit rough sleepers at night. To help homeless people find benefits and accommodation (if the person is under 18, call 999).
How homeless people can help themselves
Homeless people can claim benefits, giving the address of a family member/friend, hostel or job centre. This helps to pay for food (and pet food), interview clothes and rent deposits.
People without bank accounts can use the government’s Payment Exception Service to collect benefits from a local post office or PayPoint outlet.
How to help homeless people with dogs
Obviously BillyChip is a great way to help homeless people with dogs, as it helps buy pet food. While complying with council advice not to give money, and helps also to prevent robbery.
Read more on how to help dogs with homeless people.
