Drop In

The drop-in centre provides a non - judgemental ‘safe haven’ with a zero tolerance of anti social behaviour, drug and alcohol use, where people experiencing social exclusion and homelessness are welcomed.

We aim to provide the ongoing holistic care and support which enables client users to move forward:

Medical Care.

Drop-in GP Surgery and Practice Nurse:  provide help with all medical, addiction and mental health problems for people who find it very hard to access mainstream medical care due to their chaotic lifestyles.

Support. 

Support workers treat everyone as a unique individual, giving person centred guidance and advice individually tailored to meet their specific needs.  They take service users to meetings, hospitals, funerals and court, supporting them at every step of the way.  They even organise ‘Girls’ Time Only’ outings.

Self Worth: 

A chiropodist, hairdresser and manicurist help to raise the self esteem of service users. They can also access shower, clothing and bedding when available. Regular arts and crafts sessions also encourage creativity.

Advice & Counselling: 

Debt counselling, benefits advice, welfare rights advice, accommodation advice.

Food: 

We may not be a ‘soup kitchen’ but we know the importance of a good hearty meal.  The tea bar provides a cup of tea with a bowl of cereal or porridge to the homeless every morning.  We also provide a well-balanced nutritious three course lunch for £1 and assistance is available for those on limited or no income.

Drop-in Centre Opening Times:  Monday to Thursday (9.15 am – 4pm for the homeless and senior citizens. 10.30 am – 1pm for all other clients).  Friday (9.15 am – 2.30pm for the homeless and senior citizens. 10.30 am – 1pm for all other clients).  Closed at the weekends.

An average of 50 people use the drop-in centre each day.  In 2010 The Bath Street Drop-in centre helped 650 individuals in the following ways:

	280 individuals were provided with clothing and bedding
	250 individuals were seen by the nurse, GP and chiropodist
	280 individuals accessed shower and washing facilities
	390 individuals were offered support for addiction, mental health, housing and accommodation issues
	55 individuals received welfare rights advice
	150 individuals accessed debt counselling
	40 individuals were referred onto other specialist health services
	400 individuals received solution-focused guidance
	40 individuals attended art and craft classes
	3 individuals attended bible class each day
	Over 600 individuals benefited from the provision of food and drink

Contact:  Wendy Chapman, project manager, on 01752 203 480.