SMART CJS IMPACT REPORT 2021: Surviving and Thriving
The Impact Report is finally here! Inspirational individuals, heart-warming stories and some of the key facts and figures from SMART CJS during 2021.
EXCITING NEW VOLUNTEERING ROLE IN MILTON KEYNES!
We have an exciting new opportunity for an enthusiastic person/s to join the team at Norman Russell House (SMART’s supported accommodation in Milton Keynes for former rough sleepers) as the Activities Volunteer.
CELEBRATING 11 YEARS OF HOWARD HOUSE – PLEASE JOIN US!
So far, we have welcomed around 14 people a day into the centre for a chat, a warm drink, and a hot takeaway meal. We have spoken to several people who are struggling to afford food because of the rise of living costs and the reduction of Universal Credit. People without a home have been able to talk about their situation, get food, collect their post (the building is a registered address for many) and use the phone to make essential calls.
THE SMART PREBEND HOMELESS CENTRE IS OPEN AGAIN – THANK YOU!
So far, we have welcomed around 14 people a day into the centre for a chat, a warm drink, and a hot takeaway meal. We have spoken to several people who are struggling to afford food because of the rise of living costs and the reduction of Universal Credit. People without a home have been able to talk about their situation, get food, collect their post (the building is a registered address for many) and use the phone to make essential calls.
More than just a roof over your head
“Getting rough sleepers off the streets is only the start of the rehabilitation process”, explains Ryan Willett, who works at Norman Russell House in Milton Keynes. ”Why they got there in the first place is often a complex matter that has taken years to come about, so it’s no wonder that untangling it can take time and patience.”
The Prebend Centre is Reopening – Volunteers Needed!
The phased reopening of the Prebend Centre in Bedford begins on Wednesday 26th January! We need volunteers to help with a variety of tasks. Do you have the spare time and skills we need to get the centre thriving again?
SMART Prebend Centre Cold Relief In Bedford (CRIB) is Back!
SMART CJS had to suspend fundraising during COVID-19, but this week, as Christmas approaches, we are back with the launch of the annual Cold Relief In Bedford (CRIB) appeal and we need your support!
SMART CJS NEWS BULLETIN ISSUE 11
News from SMART CJS’s projects in Bedford, Milton Keynes and Oxford – Additional funding for rough sleeper beds, the Monster Mash at Norman Russell House and Rogers Court on the telly!
SMART CJS Wins Winter Homelessness Funding
SMART CJS, has announced that it has successfully bid for additional funds for helping rough sleepers over the Winter period. The Winter Transformation Fund grant, comes courtesy of the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities, Homeless Link and Housing Justice and was confirmed earlier this month.
Bedford-Based Chair Appointed to Board at SMART CJS
There are big changes at the top of SMART CJS, as current Chair of the board of trustees, Dave Rawcliffe, steps down after five years, handing over to Bedford-based property lawyer Chantal Thomas. Keara O’Connor, a Milton Keynes-based Project Manager also joins the board as a new trustee.
Planning the Future of the SMART Prebend Centre – We Want Your Help!
Your opinion matters! We need YOUR HELP to shape the future of the SMART Prebend Homeless Centre in Bedford. Complete a short survey and help us to help others
SMART CJS NEWS BULLETIN ISSUE 10
Exciting and uplifting news from SMART CJS’s projects in Bedford, Milton Keynes and Oxford – A landmark moment, positive developments and heartfelt feedback.
Landmark Moment in Bedford – Rogers Court is Open!
SMART CJS is proud to announce that Rogers Court, Bedford is open! It will support former homeless and rough sleepers in 20 individual, self-contained accommodation units and help people back on their feet to a positive future.
SMART HOWARD HOUSE ONLINE SURVEY GOES LIVE
Are you a former resident at Howard House or do know someone who has taken part in the programme? Have you have previously volunteered at the service? Have been involved with the service in another way? We need your help.
SMART CJS NEWS BULLETIN ISSUE 9
Take a peek at what’s been happening across SMART CJS services… In this edition: Volunteers, VIPs and a trip to Blenheim Palace.
SMART CJS NEWS BULLETIN ISSUE 8
The SMART News Bulletin covers all SMART CJS’s projects and provides local contacts. The May edition celebrates our wonderful people doing amazing things.
SMART CJS IMPACT REPORT 2020: A YEAR OF CHANGES
During 2020 we have helped at least 1500 individuals who have experienced rough sleeping and homelessness, and/or substance misuse. We believe that everyone needs a little help sometimes and, with trust, respect and honesty, people can make incredible changes. The 2020 report celebrates outstanding achievements made by amazing people!
EVERYDAY HEROES!
On the 26th March, the Bedford Independent Everyday Heroes Awards, in partnership with The Harpur Trust, will celebrate those who make Bedford brilliant. SMART CJS has nominated three local heroes who have made it to the final.
HG/FIT Running Challenge Smashes Target for SMART Prebend Centre!
Independent functional fitness gym HG/FIT and their supporters raise more than £3000 for the SMART Prebend Centre by walking and running every hour, on the hour.
SMART CJS NEWS BULLETIN JANUARY/FEBRUARY
When we started this bulletin a year ago, we did not know what a devastating effect the pandemic would have on all our lives and society as a whole. We had no idea about the changes that would be required to keep our services open so we can continue to help those who need it the most.