Learning at COC

We know, from the work we do throughout the year, that learning gives homeless people the tools to turn their lives around.

At Crisis Open Christmas we aim to provide guests with a rewarding and engaging experience and help them to discover or develop hidden skills and talents.

Partnerships to provide ongoing learning

We also build partnerships with a wide range of organisations to offer our guests the chance to continue their learning into January and beyond.

In 2006:

• In a groundbreaking project, Tower Hamlets Ideas Stores signed up 20 people for library cards without the usual proof of address requirements.
• VoiceMail4All helped 30 people sign up for their service
• The Upper Room project provided employment, construction industry and workers rights information to our guests.

Learning during Crisis Open Christmas

• 1,100 used our IT facilities and improved their skills
• 150 got involved with numeracy activities
• 250 took part in structured arts & crafts activities
• 350 got involved with literacy activities

Comment from a guest

“I really liked the teaching they gave on the computer. I now know what email is and how to send one – thank you!” Guest at the East Centre, 2006