Accessible, safe storage is hard to find for those experiencing homelessness. People sleeping out are often identified by, and targeted, for having their belongings with them, with personal items vandalised, stolen and lost.
At their purpose-created space near Kings Cross, Street Storage offer more than just shelves to store items – they provide a warm welcome, a community atmosphere with space for people to relax and have a hot drink. Every person who stores is offered one-to-one support, with signposting to partner organisations for more specialist help.
Nick first found Street Storage when he was street homeless. He was professionally trained and working as a security guard but lost his job when he became homeless after a relationship breakdown, as he wasn’t able to continue to work night shifts and find somewhere to sleep during the day.
New to the street, Nick was totally lost. He had no family or friends in London, was not aware of services that could help him, and had no case worker. Receiving a warm welcome when he stored everything he owned with Street Storage, he became a regular and was signposted to a case worker as well as services where he could access showers, laundry, a day centre and food.
“He came in bounding down the corridor to tell the team he’d secured a permanent security guard job and that he’d soon be back, once housed, to collect his items from us.”
After sleeping in hostels and short term accommodation on and off, he was determined to get off the street and back into work. At Street Storage, he was offered access to a computer and a quiet place where he could apply for jobs and a few months later he came in bounding down the corridor to tell the team he’d secured a permanent security guard job and that he’d soon be back, once housed, to collect his items from us.
“The impact of the support to reduce stress on those who store shines through. There is a community atmosphere and space for people to just relax and be themselves.” Laura, Islington Giving programme manager
If you can make a gift this winter, it will mean more projects like Street Storage can be there for those that need them most. Donate today and help us reach £40,000 – every donation counts towards a stronger, connected Islington.
