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.