YMCA Hanwell is a short-term supported housing scheme where housing and support are provided as an integrated package.
“We provide supported accommodation because we believe everyone should have somewhere safe to stay”
Our supported housing scheme is designed to help people develop in all aspects of life; mind, body and spirit, enabling people to live as independently as possible within their community, with a real focus on social inclusion.
Support
Support can include managing benefits and debt, how to develop daily living skills, looking for education, training and employment or volunteering, referrals to relevant agencies for mental health, drug or alcohol use and guidance in securing permanent accommodation.
We provide targeted and universal support to single people age 16 and above in housing need, individuals who are homeless, vulnerable and/or at risk, people living with mental illness, learning disabilities or recovering from substance misuse or those who are fleeing domestic violence.
Support Plans are an integral part of each resident stay in the hostel which are put together having carried out an extensive assessment of needs with an allocated Support Worker. These are reviewed on at least a monthly basis with the Support Worker through key working sessions however they can be initiated by the resident at any time.
Support Workers are able to give advice and information on budgeting, accessing appropriate health care, counselling/support groups, training and employment opportunities. Assistance is also given with benefit claims, job search and involvement in social activities both within and outside of the hostel.
A training and development department with specialist staff assists residents by providing basic skills tuition, computer courses, employment skills including interview techniques, CV building and job search, ESOL classes and practical living skills.
The hostel comprises of 41 flats, of which 18 are one bed self-contained flats and 19 are studio flats with shared bathroom facilities.
There are also 4 disabled flats based on the ground floor
All flats are fully furnished to a high standard with a bed, wardrobe, desk, dining table and chairs. They each have their own kitchen fully equipped with cooking appliances and utensils, where residents are expected to prepare and cook their own meals.
Facilities
Residents have access to shared facilities which include a laundry room, IT suite, adjoining Church, TV and Communal Lounges.
Residents are able to benefit from a well-equipped IT training suite and also training room with computers at 25 St. Mary’s Road, Ealing. Basic skills tuition, POA sessions, employment skills including interview techniques, CV building and job search, CLAIT, ESOL, practical living sessions and IT courses are available.
Policies, rights and responsibilities
YMCA is committed to safeguarding and equal opportunities in all areas of its work and responsibilities, aiming to support residents and to ensure that it provides accommodation and services that are safe and secure. Thus, alcohol is not allowed on our premises and smoking is not allowed on site.
We recognise that we have a duty of care, including legal obligations as a landlord; therefore YMCA will liaise with the appropriate authorities to prevent the taking and supply of illegal drugs or banned substances on its premises.
Resident Participation
YMCA is committed to ensuring that residents have a real say in the on-going management and development of the Housing and Accommodation services. Resident’s forums and resident’s surveys are held regularly.
The Association’s complaint policy and procedure ensures that our customers are listened to and valued. It also ensures that we are accountable to our residents for the quality of service being delivered.
