Description of Services
The London Connection (TLC) is a day resource for young homeless or unemployed people. Their day centre is open 7 days a week and provides a cafe serving low-cost food, free showers, laundry, healthcare, counselling, housing and benefits advice, mental health and substance misuse specialists, careers advice and skills training. Up to 160 young people use the facility on a daily basis and all services are free, other than meals for which a small charge is made.
As well as the day centre, TLC also have other successful services which seek to engage with young people in a number of ways; these include: youthwork activities which are run inside and outside the day centre, encouraging young people to build self-esteem, confidence and motivation as they take their first steps away from homelessness. They have an ongoing streetwork team who are out in central London most evenings and early mornings, making contact with young people, talking to them about their situation, and encouraging them to come into our centre. They have a Multiple Needs & Prevention Team, providing practical assistance for young people in crisis, helping with hostel referrals, long-term housing, welfare benefits, finances, family relationships and legal issues; and they provide guidance and advice to young people who want to develop their skills or find a job.
St Martin in the Fields Social Care Unit has a tradition of caring for the destitute. Based in the crypt next to St Martin in the Field's church, the Social Care Unit has been working with rough sleepers and others for more than 50 years. The Social Care Unit provides: a day centre and canteen with shower and laundry facilities; overnight service for long-term rough sleepers; free hot meals at weekends; a weekday Advice Centre; a housing and resettlement service; health clinics with a visiting doctor and nurse; art, creative writing and music groups; job search and vocational guidance; legal advice; and, help to overcome addictions. The Social Care Unit is a place to relax and meet friends, and to receive encouragement from project workers and volunteers. Wherever possible the social care unit helps people to tackle life problems, and find permanent homes. In all 50,000 people come through their doors each year.
Purpose of Grant
Two grants were awarded to help with the merger of the two organisations. The first grant allowed for initial investigation and scoping and the second for completion of the merger process. The main use of the funds was the engagement of a consultant to assist in taking the process forward.
Contact
Colin Glover: colin.glover@cstm.org.uk
Weblink: www.connection-at-stmartins.org.uk
