Homeless people are to be issued with digital banking cards to improve their access to jobs and housing, as part of a tech for good initiative.

The contactless cards will also allow rough sleepers to collect donations that can be spent via a list of approved sellers.

The NFC (near field communication) cards will also give access to a digital PO box temporary address in homeless shelters to apply for traditional banking and relevant ID.

Called the Oratio Project, the scheme has been developed by Fintech investment company Pello Capital.

It is to launch as a pilot scheme in London in the coming months and aims to be rolled out to 10,000 out of 11,000 rough sleepers in London.

“The project aims to address some of the fundamental problems caused by being homeless in the UK and help and empower individuals to take control of their future by giving them access to some of the core requirements to break the cycle of homelessness,” said Pello Capital.

“Having access to a contactless solution and a temporary address will help individuals to collect donations, gain ID, source a bank account and potentially start applying for job opportunities.”

Pello Capital managing director Daniel Gee added: “The team has worked hard on offering a solution that we believe can truly help reverse homelessness in the UK.”

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