Leonard Stocks Centre

From street to Independent living

	The Leonard Stocks Centre, a project managed by Chapter 1 in partnership with Shekinah, offers a holistic approach to helping the street homeless.
	Staff initially engage with service users on the streets of Torbay, Paignton and Brixham in the early hours before introducing them into the hostel.
	At LSC they gain the life skills they need to move on and live successfully in the community in their own homes.
	We help them gain the education and training they need to develop employment skills so they can become totally self-sufficient.
	The ‘More2Life’ programme of training and activities encompasses basic skills like literacy and numeracy, and practical ones like cooking healthy food on a budget, to art, football and fishing.
	Some residents have been able to get involved in horticulture with Shekinah’s ‘Growing for Life’ project in Paignton.
	Relaxation exercise classes have also helped many improve their general well-being and sleep patterns.
	Creative learning opportunities at LSC are vital ingredients in helping residents begin to enjoy learning and improve their employability.
	Finding employment is an important step on the path to independent living.

Much of the structured training on offer can lead to formal accreditation.

The centre has a dedicated employability support worker to provide pre-employment guidance such as CV writing and interview skills.

“Residents are encouraged to get involved with all aspects of our service and their feedback fuels continual improvement.”

Sarah Pengelly, Torbay Services Manager, Shekinah Mission:

At LSC, everyone carries out health & safety checks in preparation for when they have their own home and are encouraged to keep their rooms and communal areas clean and clutter free.

Residents complete fire safety and basic food hygiene training during their stay and are often involved in decorating, day to day tasks and the upkeep of the building.

Chapter 1

Chapter 1 provides accommodation and related support services to help vulnerable people enjoy a more fulfilled life.  It is a charity, based on Christian principles, which offers human compassion and practical support to meet people’s needs respecting their faith, culture and social background.  Currently Chapter 1 works in partnership with 29 local authorities and has a growing network of 40 projects across England. http://www.ch1.org.uk/ 

Contact: Manager Douglas Saunders 01803 217 890