A homeless charity is set release an album of original music to inspire the nation and raise money to help those most in need.

Released tomorrow, A Place To Call My Own, was written by Medway musicians Matthew Crozer and Cat Smithurst in collaboration with residents helped by Chatham based charity AMAT, and captures the issues faced daily by the homeless community.

Those behind the project hope the music also reflects the kindness shown by staff and strangers, as well as the spark and tenacity of individuals who have had to rebuild their lives.

A mix of blues, Motown, country, rock and rap, the album features hard-hitting lyrics, earworm melodies and themes that are relatable to everyone, and will be released in a special launch event on AMAT's Facebook page tomorrow, due to be followed by a live gig later in the year.

A CD of the album is available to purchase via the AMAT UK website and the album is available via online outlets and streaming services – although the charity asks supporters to buy it, not just stream it, to ensure maximum profits go to the charity.

The Project was devised by singer Cat, who runs the charity's Alive and Singing Choir, and sings in two bands - The Redfords and Nashville Exile - with her cousin Matt from High Halstow.

They began by gathering information and cataloguing the experiences of the residents, who were invited to take part in surveys, task groups and were individually interviewed about their experience of homelessness. The stories and experience informed the songs on the record, and residents were also involved in the performance of the album.

Cat explained: “I knew that this would be a really special project to work on. I have had the pleasure of working with the choir since it was formed in 2016, I have got to know the staff and residents well and was so excited about the opportunity to help them tell their stories as well as raising awareness about the many issues as to why people become homeless. Most people do not realise how close to being homeless they could be, and I think the stories told throughout the album are themes that everyone can relate to, whilst reiterating that point. The stories of incredible resilience and individuality shone through, as well as the outstanding ability that AMAT Residents have to reset, repair and rediscover themselves as individuals rather than a contributing statistic to local rough sleeper counts. Writing and recording this album has been an absolute joy! We hope that you enjoy listening to it as much as we enjoyed making it.”

For more information or details of how to log into to our virtual Album Launch – contact services@amatuk.org

AMAT UK (www.amatuk.org) was established 23 years ago to provide rapid and direct access to suitable homes for mainly single, over 25-year-old, homeless people in Medway. It is the largest homeless hostel in the south east and, as well as accommodation, provides homeless adults with tailored support, and access to opportunities to increase positive social connections within their community and leading to reduced social isolation and improved confidence and self-esteem.

AMAT is continuing to provide support during the COVID-19 pandemic while adapting the way they work to follow the latest official advice and guidance. They house and support over 300 homeless adults currently, with approximately 120 new service users a year.

Read more: all the latest news from Medway.