LeatherHEAD Start

Many are aware of the work of LeatherHead Start in supporting those who are homeless. During lockdown we have continued to provide this essential service but to keep everyone as safe as possible, we have put in a variety of additional measures:

• COVID 19 element has been added to the risk assessment carried out with each new client.

• New rules have been put in place regarding cleaning, sanitising, social distancing and monitoring
  clients’ movements to make sure everyone remains safe.

• Plans are in place, should the need, arise to isolate clients if they became symptomatic. Fortunately, so far, this has not been necessary.

Key work with clients has continued. Additional laptops have been provided for them to access Life Skills sessions via Zoom. Some  other activities have had to be suspended but work on the allotment has continued. The adjacent allotment has been taken on which should provide more fresh food for client meals and creating pickle for the Out of a Pickle project, once this is able to start again.

Our tenant support worker has continued to stay in touch with clients who have moved on from the hostel. This has included delivering food parcels and providing the support needed during this difficult time.

Last year, we received sufficient gift funding to enable us to employ a part-time cook, Rachel, who provides meals and also helps to train clients in producing low-budget, healthy meals. During lockdown, Rachel has continued to provide meals by delivering delicious dishes she has cooked in her own home.

When we are full we have to turn people away, so we have been working on plans to erect a timber office in the garden which will enable us to free up space to be used as an additional bedroom.  Planning permission has just been granted so we are delighted the project can go ahead.

We are very grateful for the ongoing support of the Church communities in Ashtead and Leatherhead who established the original Night Hostel and all those who have continued to support and pray for the work done at LeatherHEAD START.  

Please pray for:

• Staff and clients as they cope with the additional measures needed due to Covid 19  

• Our tenant support work which enables clients to succeed in their new accommodation

• The project to generate an additional bed space

• The continuation of the counselling service we have been able to offer

LeatherHEAD START provides emergency, direct access, short-term accommodation for people over the age of 18.  For more information please visit our website leatherheadstart.org or click here to see a short video on the work of the hostel.