In crisis and struggling to cope?
We believe in the importance of early intervention in stopping a crisis from escalating. At Ashford Place this is something we see, where many of our clients could have prevented their homelessness if they had received timely advice and support. In addition to this, Brent's geographically and culturally diverse nature means many people aren't aware of the support available and struggle to access services. This learning has come from the Independent Lifestyles Programme, a five year Big Lottery funded project that utilised the lived experience of our Peer Support Network to help those in crisis. This programme finished in June 2021, but we continue to work to deliver this crucial support.
Our Independent Lifestyles worker provides information, advice and guidance on matters that worsen social isolation and create a barrier to a decent life. Enquiries which can be made by telephoning Ashford Place on 020 8208 8590, option 3 (Housing) and leaving your name, contact number and message so someone can get back to you.
Alternatively, you may use the webchat facility at bottom right of this screen or email us directly at [email protected] and provide a description of your situation, along with your name and number for us to contact you. You can always drop in to see us. If we can help you on the spot we will and if not, we will offer a face to face appointment at a time to suit you or signpost you to the correct organisation to help you.
Independent Lifestyles Project (2016-2021)
The Independent Lifestyles project was developed out of our experience of using a Peer Support Network to design and deliver services in our Assessment Centre. Working with Southampton University we developed a programme to use the experience of our Peers to help those in crisis. We believe that Peer Supporters are our greatest asset as they can combine their lived experience of the trauma of homelessness with training and the experience of helping those in crisis. This places them in a unique position to be able to empathise with clients and use their knowledge to design and deliver support.
We recognise that often those in need who have children or caring responsibilities can struggle to get advice and access services. To address this we provide an online portal where those in crisis can access advice and support.
If you are facing welfare, benefit, housing or debt issues and struggling to cope support is available from our Housing Assistance Team at Ashford Place or through our Online Portal.