14 June 2007
An innovative help and advice scheme for homeless Eastern European migrants in Hackney has been given the go-ahead after a successful pilot.
Up to 30 rough sleepers and squatters have attended a drop-in centre, held at Hackney Methodist Church, in Mare Street, over the past ten weeks.
Advisers and an interpreter explained how visitors could access health services, and get help in finding housing and work.
Run by Thames Reach, the scheme is the only one of its kind in east London, and is part-funded through Hackney Council’s Drug Action Team.
“I’m delighted that this innovative scheme is to continue providing support for residents in need of a helping hand,” said Cllr Nargis Khan, Cabinet Member for Community Services.
Martin Harris, manager of the drop-in centre, said: “Unlike most homeless people in the UK, the people who use this service aren’t eligible for benefits, and so we have to find other ways to help them move on with their lives.”
