Success Stories
Case studies and reflections on how our services have helped.
Success Stories
It's important to remember the focus of our work: the homeless and vulnerable people who use our services. It really hits home when you hear how people's lives have changed.
(Client names have been changed to protect privacy)
1. Working it out in the Art Workshop
"Providence Row runs a twice weekly art group for homeless people and those who have experienced homelessness. Its acts as therapy, enabling people to express their emotions in a creative and proactive way - building confidence and allowing them to develop and learn new skills. One regular member of the art group is Adam, who has been attending for the past three and half years. With the support and encouragement of staff, Adam completed a one year course in Art and Design and is now entering his third year on a part time Fine Art degree in East London University.
The art rooms at our Satellite Centre provided Adam with the space, equipment and materials he needs for his studies as well as help with written skills.
The art group also goes on visits to galleries and on day trips out of London such as trips to the seaside and once a year there is an art exhibition of clients work.
At present Adam is looking to become an art teacher and to be able to sell his work so that he can support himself and gain independence." Shiraz, Artist in Residence
2. Dual Diagnosis
"Charlie had been using the Dellow Centre for breakfast and laundry facilities. We talked with him during the morning session and found out that he actually had a flat, but was not using because he felt he could not cope. He was smoking heroin and was feeling really depressed.
We referred him to our Dual Diagnosis Team for support. Soon after Charlie was prescribed methadone and began weekly support sessions with one of our Complex Needs workers.
Gradually Charlie started to use his flat and stabilized on methadone. We sent him to the Meaningful Occupation Team for an assessment and after that he began volunteering at a local community farm three times a week. Now he has something meaningful to do with his time which means he no longer feels the need to turn to drugs.
I'm very happy to report that Charlie has started a long term training course and is well established in his flat." Caroline, Complex Needs Supervisor
3. Supported Housing Solution
"A lady in her mid-20s came in to our Dellow Centre. She had fled an abusive relationship. She was Eritrean, with leave to remain in the UK. Here in London she now had no one to turn to but didn't feel that she could safely return to her home.
Initially I helped her apply for her Job Seekers Allowance, but felt what she really needed was supported housing for her safety and to help her deal with what had happened to her. It took some phoning around but eventually I found her a place at a specialised St Mungo's hostel. I filled in the forms and accompanied her to the interview, and she was accepted! Now he has a place to live and gets the support that she needs." Faizou, Project Worker
