A progressive step forward.

The first ever vending machine for homeless people launched today in the UK. The first of its type, this machine will give homeless people access to basic needs such as food, water, socks, gloves and sanitary needs. This new vending carousel will be situated in Nottingham and was created by Action Hunger. Action Hunger provides care for the most vulnerable people in society and they believe that these machines will provide people without a home some essential needs to stay alive this winter.

UK’s first vending machine for homeless people - Chris from Nottingham first to try it out to get food and socks. Charity ‘Action Hunger’ hopes to have them in every town/city... @GMB pic.twitter.com/kRLzcWcxG4

— Nick Dixon (@NickDixonITV) December 19, 2017

According to the charity, access to the machine will be available to homeless 24/7 meaning nobody will ever be without the aid of food or clothing. The machines can only be accessed by homeless, who will be given a key by local authority. They will then be allowed to take three items per day - which will all be donated by leading supermarkets.

The worlds first vending machine for the homeless opens in Nottingham. Now people can get items like water, snacks and socks 24 hours a day. pic.twitter.com/gMCJjrmZXJ

— Hayley Compton (@RadioHayley) December 19, 2017

The charity has plans to install a vending machine in Manchester and New York before the end of February. Alongside these vending machines, other companies have stepped up to the plate and have decided to offer lunch, showers, counselling and medical care to homeless in Nottingham.