In addition to our Shelter and move-on accommodation across Essex, CHESS provides outreach services to rough sleepers in 8 local authorities – Chelmsford, Maldon, Braintree, Rochford, Epping, Brentwood, Castle Point and Uttlesford. These referrals come through the StreetLink system. Once a rough sleeper is referred our team will visit the person concerned to assess their immediate needs, providing emergency items as required. We also have rooms available at another property for emergency cases, and may be able to provide temporary accommodation (72 hours), a hot shower and meal etc, after an initial assessment.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
We have an ongoing and urgent need for the following items which we hand out on a regular basis:
- Sleeping Bags
- Small Tents (small waterproof pop-up)
- Drinks (cans/bottles of coke, water etc.)
- Snacks (cereal bars, crisps, sweets, pot noodles etc.)
- Hygiene Items (Wet wipes, Deodorant)
- Warm Hats, Socks, Gloves (during winter months)
There are often additional needs for warm coats, men’s trainers/boots, gloves, hats, scarves – and we request these through our social media channels as needs arise. If you are unsure please contact us to see if we are accepting clothing donations as often our stores are full.
The team also carry out regular street visits in the 8 districts mentioned above as well as assistance with accessing benefits and other services appropriate to their needs (mental health, alcoholism etc).
Click here if you are concerned about a rough sleeper you have seen in the local community and would like to instigate a referral visit by an Outreach Team.
JOIN THE CHESS OUTREACH TEAM
We are looking for volunteers to assist our Outreach Team in meeting the urgent needs of rough sleepers in our community.
The roles include following up referrals directly on the street and assessing client suitability for the possibility of a 72 hour stay at The Hub on New London Road. Areas covered will be Chelmsford, Braintree, Maldon, Epping, Brentwood, Castle Point and Uttlesford. Applicants should be fit and healthy, due to some walking involved, and have a desire to help homeless individuals whilst adhering to policies and procedures. Full training provided and an enhanced DBS check will be completed.
If this is something that interests you we would love to hear from you. For more information about the role and an application form, please contact julie.kelsey@chesshomeless.org
