Outreach Update

We have been working with The Passage since 2021, with the aim of ensuring that those that are vulnerable and living on the streets are able to access support and solutions. The Passage Community Intervention Team (CIT) provides a daytime street-based outreach service in the area twice a week, offering tailored support to those that are rough-sleeping, many of whom have complex needs, or who engage in daytime street activity, which could include drinking and begging. They work closely with homelessness charities, Westminster City Council, and substance misuse and health services, to provide the best support for those in need. Outside of these times, our Street Team monitor the area, checking in on those that are sleeping on the streets and reporting instances of concern to The Passage to follow up on.   

Below is a case study of the type of individual that has benefitted from the support offered by The Passage, and their partnership work with other agencies across the capital.  

Case Study  

The Baker Street Quarter Street Team alerted The Passage to a male who was bedded down in an unusual spot in the area, well hidden, under a staircase. After a few attempts by The Passage to engage with the man, he finally spoke to them, explaining that he was struggling with his status and housing. He explained that he was previously working with a lawyer but lost touch with him and was back to square one, feeling very hopeless for his future.  

The team told him about The Passage and how they could support him and took his details. After some liaison with other outreach agencies, they were able to identify his key worker who was worried for his wellbeing having not been able to contact him. Working alongside fellow outreach service St Mungo’s, the teams carried out regular visits to his bedded down site to ensure that he was able to rebuild the connection to his key worker and get the support that he needed. The man is now working with an Immigration Solicitor to support him with his settled status and is currently in temporary accommodation whilst he awaits the outcome of his immigration case.  

What you can do 

If you are worried about someone that is sleeping on the streets, you can inform Streetlink here 24/7. They will alert outreach teams, who go out mostly at night to connect people sleeping rough to local support services. To note – you should always call 999 if the person is in immediate danger, needs medical assistance, or is under 18. You can also report ongoing concerns to the Street Team who will work with The Passage to ensure that individual’s needs are assessed and targeted support delivered.    

Watch our information film here.  

The Passage has a number of fundraising activities and volunteering opportunities to get involved with throughout the year. Find out more here.