This Christmas there will be more than double the number of rough sleepers in Gravesend and Dartford than there was last year, according to a homeless charity.

Porchlight has been working with 41 homeless people in Gravesend, and a further 43 people in Dartford, compared to 25 and 28, respectively, last year.

The charity is now asking for donations so they can help rehome as many people as they can.

Mike Barrett, Porchlight chief executive, said: “We’re doing everything we can to help people but need the public’s help to fund our services.

“Being on the streets can be deadly in the winter months. A donation, no matter what amount, can provide a lifeline for someone this Christmas.”

The charity says welfare cuts and the rising cost of rent has contributed to a sharp increase in homelessness across the county.

Porchlight’s helpline receives 16 calls about homeless people in Kent each day. In the last month, 495 people have called to say they are homeless, are at risk of becoming homeless or because they have seen someone sleeping rough.

Craig, 51, became homeless two years ago after he struggled to come to terms with the death of his wife. His family were unable to put him up full time so he was forced to sleep rough.

He said: “I wouldn’t wish homelessness upon my worst enemy. One night I was robbed while I slept. From then on, I was always looking over my shoulder, constantly afraid of what might happen next.”

Craig got in contact with Porchlight, who were able to move him into one of their hostels.

“The help I received, particularly from my support worker Heather was unreal,” he said. “When you’ve been living on the streets it’s easy to become confused and not think straight. Heather was always there for me.”

Craig has recently moved into his own flat and the charity is helping him to settle in.

He said: “It’s like a weight has been lifted from my shoulders and I’ve got my confidence back. I love it here and I’m so thankful for everything.

“Because of Porchlight, I’m looking forward to Christmas this year, it feels great to be in a place of my own.”

To donate visit www.porchlight.org.uk/donate