A PODIATRY service is helping homeless people to stay on their feet.

Debbie Monk is the founder of Forgotten Feet, a charity providing free foot care for those most in need.

She holds regular sessions for service users in a private room at Maggs Day Centre in Worcester

Ms Monk said: “I see different issues such as trench foot, gangrene, ulcers and infection as well as overgrown toe nails.

“Keeping feet covered for weeks on end, getting hot and then cold and damp leads to poor foot health.

“Many are embarrassed but it’s about treating people as human beings and I want to offer this service for people most at need but are least able to pay for it.

“Podiatry is a gate keeper for service users to then move on to say, seeing a dentist,

“They get used to the touch and care we give them and it builds confidence.

Margarita White, facilities coordinator at Maggs Day Centre, said: “ This is a much needed service to offer and rough sleepers can have bad feet.”

A service user who was having his feet cared for but did not want to be named, said: “The foot service is a good thing and I’m glad I’ve come.”

Steve Jamieson, chief executive of the College of Podiatry, said: “We’re thrilled to see members using their expertise to make a real impact on the health of society’s most vulnerable.

"Homeless people are at particular risk of serious foot conditions, as they often spend hours on their feet in poor footwear, with little opportunity for effective care.

"Through providing this essential care, Deborah and her team are making the Christmas period just that bit more manageable for this community.”

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Forgotten Feet welcome donations of sturdy footwear to allow service users to make a choice over what they like.

Anyone wanting to donate walking boots and trainers in good condition, can contact: debimonk@hotmail.com.

For volunteer opportunities at Maggs, call: 01905 25027