The Need for Our Service

In 2010 C4WS received 231 referrals and were able to accommodate 67. The demand for our service therefore exceeded our capacity nearly 4 times. Homelessness therefore remains a daily struggle for a significant minority in Camden. The causes vary considerably as do the demographic groups of the individuals experiencing homelessness.

Much good work is being done by statutory and other voluntary services but a clear need remains; in particular for those people who are categorised as ‘non-priority homeless’ who are expected to sort their current experience of homelessness out for themselves. Sometimes people in such circumstances need a little help and support. C4WS is a strategic project that offers customised support and emergency accommodation; often at a time when people have exhausted all their known avenues of assistance.

"Once again, C4WS has demonstrated the need for emergency accommodation for rough sleepers in the Camden borough. It is relief when the service opens as it means clients who request help with their housing crisis might have the possibility of a roof over their head that night. Conversely, it is disappointing when it closes as the route to immediate shelter whilst options are explored is removed. It is unfortunate that vulnerable people who fall through the gaps of regular provision, for example those sleeping on night buses or sofa surfing, are left without an emergency option in the absence of C4WS."

Camden Health Improvement Practice, Kings Cross, April 2010

The current housing crisis most severely impacts those who the system, as it stands, is not designed to assist (i.e. single homeless people without support needs). C4WS would rather give people a temporary base, assistance with their housing, health and employment needs, rather than risk them developing a lifestyle that would ironically qualify them for statutory assistance! There needs to be a change in provision for non-statutory homeless people. An issue we are raising with Housing Justice and Homeless Link. Until there is a step change in the design of provision, a clear gap will continue to exist for projects like C4WS to operate. While gaps exist C4WS intends to offer people the help that we would covet if we were in similar circumstances.

"At the C4WS Shelters, people are very kind and very peaceful. I have never had any problems here. The people who run the shelter are very professional and not at all intimidating and knowing that someone cares has made me much more motivated compared with a few months ago. I’m in College now and have one more month to go . I’ve been struck by the kindness – it was a completely new experience for me. The food is always great. There is nothing bad about the shelters. They are very relaxed and the standards are very high." A guest