Accommodation

Croydon Association for Young Single Homeless (CAYSH)

Who is the project for?

Who do we help?

Young single homeless people aged 16-21, including those with low to medium support needs around independent living skills. Must have a Croydon connection (eg born, lived or been at school in the borough, family or relatives living there).

Who we cannot help

Young people with dependents. Those with a conviction for serious violence, sexual offences or arson. Those with "an active criminal lifestyle". Those with drug or alcohol dependencies.

Gender

Mixed and women only

Minimum age accepted

16

Maximum age accepted

21

How to get a referral

Referral agencies

Accept referrals from any agency via Drop In Zone (details above). Most referrals come from Croydon agencies, including YMCA Croydon and CHAS. Also accept referrals from prison via YOT worker (phone: 020 8404 5834).

Referral procedure

Applicants should check website to ensure Drop In Zone is open before calling in to arrange an appointment. Application form. Initial housing advice interview. Further interview if criteria met. May require background information.

Length of stay

Minimum stay

3-6 Months

Maximum stay

2 Years

Support and accommodation

Support offered

Staff visit projects a minimum of 2-3 times a week. Care plan, support plan, and keyworking sessions at least monthly. Staff act as advocates, provide informal counselling and help residents access specialist services. Residents expected to participate in planned programme of activities and may move from shared housing to the more independent bedsits and flats.

Total spaces

150

Units

In 50+ buildings: shared houses, s/c flats and bedsits.

Further information

Public transport

Office: Thornton Heath train station - 15 mins walk.