Homelessness can affect anybody, and many of those who experience or are threatened with homelessness report feeling overwhelmed, stressed and unsure about where to turn. Services provided by Crisis and other partners in Brent are one way for people to make sense of their situation and take steps to address it.
However, one of the most effective ways to reduce homelessness is to prevent it ever occurring in the first place. The earlier someone sees that there is a risk of homelessness and know where to seek support, the better. And for this, we need the help of our neighbours and colleagues in Brent.
‘Homelessness Awareness Sessions’ – delivered by the place-based team at Crisis Brent – are short introductions to the problem of homelessness. They are aimed at any organisation working in Brent which wants to learn more about the subject and what it can do to support those in need. This is part of our ‘place-based’ approach: we believe that we can create more impact, and more sustained change, by working with everyone in this community to make homelessness a top priority, including those who perhaps may not have previously considered the issue in depth before.
To date, sessions have been delivered with colleagues from health, substance misuse, domestic abuse, employment, and specialist immigration services, as well as faith and community groups. Sessions are also in development with transport and enforcement services.
“Just a really impactful and enjoyable (although hard-hitting) session which I know will be of great benefit to our organisation, I learnt so much today and it’s made me see a lot of things differently with respect to my own role in helping people experiencing or at risk of homelessness - thank you very much.”
Sessions are typically range between 1.5 to 3 hours, are free of charge and are tailored to the needs of the people in the room. Joint sessions (i.e. with multiple organisations) can also be arranged. Topics covered include:
Sessions are developed with those who have experienced homelessness and professionals across the sector.
“The session was very informative and engaging. Both [presenters] created a safe space for the group to convey their thoughts and break down common societal attitudes towards homelessness.”
If you would like us to arrange a session for your team or yourself, have any questions or would like to know more, please contact us.
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