The Connection at St Martin’s is based in the heart of the West End and works with people who are rough sleeping to move away from, and stay off, the streets of London. It often starts with a chat, the offer of a coffee and perhaps and hot meal and shower. The chance to use a washing machine, a computer, or to charge a phone. Simple things that aren’t easy when you’re living on the streets.
Then it’s about listening to people, building up trust and understanding, so we can work out together what they need next. It could be advice on finding somewhere to live or the opportunities to gain skills, grow their confidence, self-belief and chances of work.
For people who have been pushed to the edge, and have many challenges to overcome, it’s more complicated. We get to know everyone as an individual, so we can inspire their trust and tailor our support to their unique needs and hopes for a better future. When you feel let down by the system, it’s not always easy to find or accept help. So we stick with people, and find ways to get them what they need. That could be mental health support, legal advice, medical treatment or help with drug or alcohol issues.
We also offer the chance to take part in groups and activities like music, art, creative writing or gardening. It’s about treating every person with dignity and ultimately, it’s about finding a way off the streets and a place to call home.
Our capital has more rough sleepers than anywhere else in the UK. But it also has a strong community of charities and companies who are determined to make this city a better place for everyone. Thank you for making us the partner charity for the NetZero Festival and helping us make London a city where no one sleeps rough on our streets.