ANNUAL REVIEW SEPTEMBER 2017 2018 - Oasis Community Housing
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ANNUAL REVIEW SEPTEMBER 2017 - 2018
Introduction
out on the streets. We are there helping to meet the continuing
for the young teenager whose need.
mum died when she was 12, as We hope you will read the sto-
she runs out of sofas to sleep ries on these pages, absorb the
on; for the 21-year-old struggling reality of the statistcs, and find
to find work and manage his a reason to share our vision and
anxiety; for the mum who wants join us.
to keep her baby while she flees Perhaps you walk past a rough
domestic violence; for the man sleeper each day? If you knew a
who has lost his home in a bitter better way to help them, would
divorce; or for the former lawyer you do it? So many people want
who has become an entrenched to help, but simply don’t know
rough sleeper through his men- how. We believe the best way of
tal health struggles. helping is supporting an organi-
Our projects help stop these sation like ours, enabling us to do
downward spirals. With 35 years what we do best: transforming
A
of experience working in our lives by radical Christ-like inclu-
communities in the northeast sion. There is a way for all of us to
s a Christian home- and London, we are starting to support Oasis Community Hous-
lessness charity we share what we know in cities ing: tell people about us, support
seek to live out the around the UK. our events, volunteer for us, work
Parable of the Good Just like the people we work with us or simply make a monthly
Samaritan, helping with, we need help to do that. donation. Thank you for read-
the person in need we might Over the next 10 pages you ing and please don’t cross to the
pass by every day. can find out more about what we other side of the road.
But we go so much deeper do, as we highlight the achieve-
than that. We are about giving ments of the past year and Professor Caroline Wroe
people the help they need before demonstrate how much more Chair of Oasis Community
they ever have to spend a night there is to do and our vision for Housing
W
E are a mission- ting people back on track and
centered fulfilling their potential. But if
charity, and you want to know more about
our mission is us, somewhere simple is a good
urgent. Between place to start.
2010 and 2017, rough sleeping Our annual review is themed
increased by 169%*. around our five values: hope,
And it’s not just statistics that worth, inclusion, perseverance
feed this urgency, we see every and life. We think as you read
day the growing demand across the stories of those we support,
our projects. you’ll agree that each story re-
We run a range of projects that flects these values.
aim to end homelessness and its That gives us renewed faith, as
causes at every level. Education, we take our movement further
aspiration, empowerment and and deeper than ever before.
the practical tools to achieve run We hope these stories will
through the core of all that we do. move you, and then move you to
Life has become more compli- action. Because ultimately that’s
cated for many of us in the last why this charity exists. We’re not get behind our mission, irrespec-
ten years, and this is particularly interested in sentimentality or tive of faith. So this review is for
true for the people we serve. hand-wringing, we want to take everyone. Those we’ve worked
Mental health, addiction, the pain we see on our doorstep with from day one, to those we * Please note, some
government austerity and local and do something radical to haven’t even met yet. names have been
council cuts are squeezing peo- change it. United, we can replace Home- changed in the case
ple who cannot cope with any Our charity is founded on the lessness with Hope.
more pressure in their lives. life of Jesus, from whom we draw
studies that follow.
Complexity doesn’t scare these values. But we believe Some photos are
David Smith
us – we’re really good at get- everyone can relate to them, and Chief Executive posed by models.
* Statistics courtesy of Homeless Link
www.oasiscommunityhousing.org @oasiscommunityhousing @oasiscomhousing
Financials
Income Income Donations Charitable Activities – Income
Donations £855,120
Charitable Activities £1,901,948
Rental Income £1,205,180
Contract Income £658,678 20%
12%
Other Income £38,090 31%
Investment Income £1,602
Other trading Income £26,694 3%
£2,785,364 1% 1%
68% 80%
Donations
1%
Grants £682,416
Donations £172,704
£855,120
Charitable activities 82%
Home £1,557,073
Basis £235,918
Empower £65,218 Donations Charitable Activities Grants Donations Home Basis Empower
Aspire £27,633 Investment Income Other Trade Income Aspire Volunteering
Volunteering £16,111
£1,901,953
Expenditure Expenditure Charitable Activities – Expenditure
Raising Funds £193,472
Charitable Activities £2,622,917
£2,816,389 8%
5%
Charitable Activities
Home £1,532,086
Basis £748,813
Empower £123,144
£193,472 58%
Aspire £218,874
29%
£2,622,917
£2,622,917
Raising Funds Charitable Activities Home Basis Empower Aspire
www.oasiscommunityhousing.org @oasiscommunityhousing @oasiscomhousing
Perseverance
We are committed to people and
communities for the long term, and will
give second, third and fourth chances
Our projects at a glance ...
Elizabeth House
At a protected address in Gates- and develop resilience themselves.
head, young mums and their babies Each resident has a main support
live with the support of the Eliza- worker who will meet them weekly
beth House team. for support sessions as well as be-
Without the project, many of ing available through the day.
these babies would be removed by Twelve mums moved out during
Children’s services for safeguard- the year: five moved on positively
ing purposes. Due to the expertise with their children. Seven children
on site, families have a significant- were made safe through removal.
ly higher chance to stay together Although any statistics related
safely. to children being removed from
Katie became addicted to drugs in her teens. After years In the past year, 16 mums and 19 their mothers are stark, this signi-
of living rough, she found a safe haven at Elizabeth House, children have benefitted from 24- fies seven children who have been
where our HOME team have helped her to turn the page hour support, with five of the wom- made safe, which is a successful
en aged 17 or younger. outcome for the child and project.
H
The aim of Elizabeth House is Wilmott Dixon made an out-
always to resettle mum and child standing contribution to the pro-
EAVILY pregnant and worn out what to do, they make you together into their own accommo- ject this year: Investing £26,189.71
from battling addiction, Katie think it’s your idea!” dation. in staff time and materials to reno-
arrived at Elizabeth House last She views Elizabeth Staff walk alongside the mums vate the kitchen, dining and living
spring looking for a new start. House as a place where as they settle their children into room and fit new doors. The refur-
Years earlier she’d lived at hope can be restored: positive routines, learn to parent bishment has made a tremendous
the project for a short time. But unable to “It’s about chances. positively, build self-confidence difference for residents and staff.
confront her chaotic lifestyle, she’d returned This is the chance to
to sleeping rough. keep your child or
Losing custody of her daughter shortly bring them back Foyer
afterwards caused her to spiral further and have them with
down. “I was so angry. So bitter about you. It’s hard but it’s The Foyer, based in Croydon, ed had a wide range of needs. 36
housed 58 young people in the last per cent disclosed a history of
everything and everyone. Now I can look worth it.” Living with
year. depression, more than a quar-
back and understand, but at the time I a Christian charity
Of the young people supported ter had been rough sleepers
couldn’t,” she explained. also affirms Katie’s by the Foyer over the 12 months, and more than a third had un-
Katie spent the next decade sofa own faith. “When I 67 per cent were homeless due dergone emotional or physical
surfing and trying to survive a number of was younger I started to conflict within the family, 17 abuse.
relationships where she was physically and going to church and per cent due to eviction (includ- A further 19 per cent had self-
mentally abused. Her drug taking, which had I met a lot of people ing family eviction), 24 per cent harmed, 12 per cent had been
begun as a young teenager, continued, and who’d given their lives stated they were asked to leave sexually abused or raped and 12
she began to drink too. up to God. I think we all and nine per cent were leaving per cent had experienced a break-
“I would trust people but they’d always let need that higher power care. The young people support- down.
me down. All I had was addiction.” – whatever that means
When she was 12-years-old, Katie smoked to you – you need to have
cannabis for the first time while hanging out faith in yourself too.” No.3
with an older crowd. By 16 she had become Now that her life is
The No 3 project became home for the No.3 staff team also supported
addicted and began to take harder drugs like beginning to take shape, Katie
29 young women in the past year, eight ex-residents each month. 71
tranquilizers, cocaine and speed. She gained has been reunited with her
all at risk of becoming homeless per cent engaged in education or
a criminal record for theft and violence and family and her eldest child. She’s with a wide range of support needs. training during the period while
thought about taking her life. keenly aware that there’s still work to Many had a history of depression, 50 per cent were employed. 93 per
But one year ago, Katie decided enough be done. half had experienced emotional cent of those who moved out did so
was enough. Gradually she cut down her “Being with them now is better than any abuse. 18 per cent disclosed they in a planned way.
drug use, and a social worker arranged a drug in the world. I’ve had a taste of what my had been raped or sexually abused Thanks to a £70,000 grant from
place for her at Elizabeth House. life can be like. I’ve got hope now. and a quarter had attempted sui- Land Aid and a high value Dona-
Katie said: “When I first arrived I was “I know I’ve changed a lot. And I know I didn’t matter. I have lots of plans now. I know cide. tion, two phases of building im-
suspicious. It was hard to let people help have a lot of changing to do. I think that’s I have to prove myself in the community. I Other support needs included provements are scheduled to take
me – I would think: ‘what do you want?’ a good thing. “Before, I didn’t care what want to live somewhere quiet, where I can neglect, alcohol and drugs mis- place in the near future.
Gradually I became more trusting.” Katie happened to me. Or where I woke up. It bring up my child.” use, destructive behaviour, of- Zonta International have also
gave birth to her baby while living at fending, rough sleeping, and shown us great support, choosing
the project. Together, the pair are now racial or sexual harassment. No.3 as their Project of the Year;
flourishing. Katie said: “There are rules here, During the year 21 per cent of all they will be involved in a Capital
“I’ve had a taste of what life
but I needed that. Even in the middle of the those supported engaged with our Appeal and fundraising for the final
night there’s someone to talk to. in-house counsellor. On average third stage of works.
“Deborah [project team leader of Elizabeth
can be like. I’ve got hope now”
House] is straight to the point and I like that.
I know where I stand here. All the staff are
good at giving discipline and boundaries.
They make suggestions rather than tell you
www.oasiscommunityhousing.org @oasiscommunityhousing @oasiscomhousing
Inclusion
Everyone has a need to
belong. So we are passionate
about including everyone
Our projects at a glance ...
Naomi
The Naomi Project in Gateshead Again, 90 per cent arrived with a
provides around-the-clock sup- known history of substance mis-
ported accommodation to young use, and 98 per cent with a men-
women aged 16 to 30 on the brink tal health diagnosis. Seven were
of homelessness. young mums or pregnant and one
Causes include domestic vio- resident had Foetal Alcohol Syn-
lence, substance misuse recovery, drome Disorder.
mental health issues, offending, In the past year, the project had
neglect, child removal and rela- an 84 per cent occupancy, and 42
tionship breakdown and often a per cent of the young residents
combination of several major is- undertook, education, employ-
Rebekah’s life hit a downward spiral after the loss of her mother. With sues. ment or training.
the help of the Naomi Project, part of our HOME team, she is back on In the past year the Naomi Pro- When ready, residents progress
her feet and achieving wonderful things. ject has accommodated 26 young to more independent living, in
R
women, 90 per cent of whom had flats owned by the charity, while
experienced domestic abuse be- maintaining the valued relation-
EBEKAH was 15 when her mother died support worker is there for me.”
fore moving in. ship with their support worker.
after a long battle with lung disease. Despite all that she has
Not knowing her father, Rebekah was been through, Rebekah has
left to stay with relatives, but found done so well at the Naomi Karis
these arrangements fragile and unsafe. project that she is now Karis provides six managed and All of the young mothers have
To deal with her grief, she began to smoke entering her third year supported tenancies to young suffered from mental health prob-
cannabis, and found herself sofa surfing after a at college, and has mums aged 16 to 25 and their chil- lems. During the period we have
foster placement fell apart. moved into a flat of dren. had 88 per cent occupancy rate
Alone, aged 17, she found the family she was her own, where she The key aim of Karis is to em- and a 100 per cent positive move-
looking for at the Naomi Project. continues to be power families at risk of exclusion, on rate.
Although she was nervous at first, gradually supported by the by helping them gain stability, Supporting people to take re-
she made friends with the other residents, and staff. overcome challenges and be in- sponsibility and support them to
learned to trust the staff. The staff cite cluded as part of their community. organise their budgets leads to
Rebekah said: “They knew I could do her as a role During the past year, Karis has a more physically and mentally
something good with my life, even when I didn’t model to the housed eight mums and 10 chil- healthier young parent.
think I could. other girls, and dren, 33 per cent of whom had suf- Karis has capacity to support
“Sometimes I thought I wasn’t worth it, but are enormously fered domestic abuse before mov- more families in this situation and
they just pushed me up and gave me the stability proud of her ing into a Karis property. a tenancy rescue service to ensure
I needed. They always see the good in me. achievements. 33 per cent came to Karis budgets, parenting and life skills
“I started to rely on the staff instead of the They attend through rent arrears as a result of can be encouraged and improved.
drugs. The more people I have around me the her parent’s not understanding the Housing
more I feel I can cope. evenings and Benefit system.
“They sorted out a counsellor for me so I other events,
had someone to talk to about everything that’s where students can
happened. show what they’ve Healthy Resilient Lives Programme
“They’ve given me a lot of chances. I messed learned.
This year the Healthy Resilient an LED lightbox, acupuncture ses-
up so many times but they just stuck with me. Rebekah said:
Lives Programme supported 100 sions, sessions in a music studio
I used to scream and shout a lot but now I can “When I was studying
people from across the charity to and travel and childcare costs to
just come in and have a cry if I need to. I have hospitality at college,
boost their mental and physical let a young mum access therapy.
good days and bad days but I can talk to them.” my support worker and
health and improve their diets. Amongst many workshops and
Rebekah was 10 when her mum was my social worker came to an me. These Seventy-seven personal budgets events, seventy-eight Healthy Eat-
diagnosed with lung disease. evening meal at the college where guys made yielded gym memberships, sports ing and Cooking Workshops took
“I just wanted to look after her. She was in and I served them and showed them what me want to be a clothing, cooking equipment, art place across the residential pro-
out of hospital a lot and I’d stay with her friends. I’d learned. “They were really happy and support worker. materials, an illustration course, jects, with a total of 315 attendees.
I still see some of them and they say I look like surprised. They didn’t know what I was capable “They helped me so much with
her. That makes me happy. I like that I remind of and neither did I. College has given me a lot of college: choosing a course, helping me go to
them of her. skills and my confidence is a lot better. open days. Social Lettings Agency
“My school really helped me too. They’d visit “It’s amazing the way the house has affected “They’re like an adopted family.” The Social Lettings Agency offers a period of 18 months or longer. We
my mum in hospital, and if I was late they’d
good quality, affordable homes to have provided homes for 37 tenants
make me tea and toast and give me a minute.
families and individuals on a low and families, including 11 children.
They had a room where I could just go and sleep
“They gave me the stability I needed.
income. Additionally, we have received an
for a bit when I got too tired.
We’re proud to say that 33 per cent increasing number of referrals from
“It’s still hard. Sometimes I feel like I never had
of tenancies have been renewed for existing tenants and landlords,
a mum because I can’t remember her as much
They always see the good in me”
three years or more, with a further demonstrating our quality service
as I want to. I feel like there’s a box in my head
50 per cent of tenancies being for reputation.
where I have to keep those feelings.
“My mum’s birthday, and the anniversary
of the day she died are hard for me. But my
www.oasiscommunityhousing.org @oasiscommunityhousing @oasiscomhousing
Worth
We believe in the inherent worth and
dignity of all people, we will therefore treat
everyone equally, respecting differences.
Our projects at a glance ...
Aspire
The Aspire Programme has run four gramme to support people experienc-
key projects during the previous year. ing multiple health barriers to employ-
ment.
Talent Match offered personalised Our Moving on Tyne and Wear navi-
one-to-one coaching and mentoring gator has connected with 43 people
sessions to young people in Gateshead. since April, helping them to regain
Our Talent Match team worked with confidence and re-join the community
137 vulnerable young people (aged 18 through work, training or meaningful
to 24) who have additional barriers fac- activity, seven have also successfully
ing them entering the labour market. left the programme after finding work.
Hannah was referred to our EMPOWER team after years of Over the year, 25 gained some form This programme is led by Mental
abuse from her ex-partner. This is her story of reclaiming of employment or paid work and/or Health Concern and again is fund-
happiness and a sense of worth
H
engaged in 70 training opportunities ed by European Social Fund and Big
including our own Digital Inclusion Lottery.
“ E had piercing green eyes. If he occasions, and Hannah felt frightened: Different domestic violence support teams and Women’s confidence courses. The
walked in here now you’d think he “It escalated so quickly. I wonder now, if I hadn’t began to contact Hannah, triggered by the programme is funded through the Big Until March 2018, our BEAT 2 pro-
was quiet, shy even. He just seemed left when I did would I even be alive? police involvement. At first she rejected their Lottery and we are part of a partner- gramme provided financial capability
like a good guy.” “We’d argue, and if I cried or got upset he’d offers of help, but gradually the seeds of doubt ship headed by the Wise Group. support to service users across Tyne
Hannah met her ex-partner in film it and say he’d show social services so were sown and she began to question the way and Wear and Northumberland in con-
2013, through a mutual friend. At first, things they’d take my baby away. He always had an she was being treated. The Wise Steps programme offered junction with Changing Lives.
were rosy, and the relationship was a new excuse for his behaviour. He was allowed to Abruptly, the relationship ended, and employment support for adults in Financial Capability Support is an
chapter for Hannah, after problems with have problems, but I was just ‘crazy’.” through a council-run programme, Hannah Gateshead dealing with long-term un- integral and critical part of our offer of
anxiety and depression had led to her being was introduced to our Empower team at Oasis employment and with multiple barri- employability support, helping people
hospitalised the year before. Community Housing. The Empower team work ers to finding work. with debt and managing their money
Doctors had told Hannah that she wouldn’t with low to medium risk victims of domestic Since the project launched in Janu- issues helps them to consider return-
be able to have a baby, so when she fell abuse and run ten-week group courses ary 2017 our Wise Steps Coach sup- ing to work or sustaining that work.
pregnant a year later, it was unexpected that explore healthy and unhealthy ported 41 individuals, many of them on Over the 11 months of this project,
news. relationships. to training and 12 have already exited 172 individuals were engaged in sup-
But as her pregnancy progressed, At Empower, Hannah found some the programme after gaining employ- port around debt, benefits and manag-
Hannah noticed a worrying change much-needed insight through ment. ing their money.
in her relationship. support worker, Claire. Wise Steps is a Tyne and Wear pro- Our two staff were able to secure
“If I questioned anything Claire began to challenge gramme funded through the European over £1.26 million in benefits that cli-
he’d say it was because of my Hannah’s way of seeing the Social Fund and Big Lottery to provide ents were rightfully entitled to.
mental health, or because relationship, and supported employment support for people who Sadly, national funding from the
I was pregnant. He had her through the family are long-term unemployed and have Money Advice Service came to an end,
terrible mood swings that courts as custody was multiple barriers to finding work. The but OCH remains committed to finan-
seemed to come from fought for. Wise Group also lead this programme. cial capability support and a new in-
nowhere. Hannah said: “One day house programme returned in autumn
“It felt like being on a she asked me if I still Moving on Tyne and Wear is a pro- 2018 to support our service users.
horrible rollercoaster. held a torch for my
If he wanted something
he’d put a lot of pressure
ex. I was shocked and
said ‘No!’
Empower
on me and say I didn’t She shot back with: The Empower service offers a ten- ex-clients now returning to help facili-
care about him if I ‘Then why are you week programme developed to break tate group sessions.
wouldn’t do it. still defending his the cycle of abusive relationships for During the period September 2017
“If I made him unhappy behaviour?’ victims of domestic and sexual abuse. to August 2018, we had 204 refer-
in any way he’d begin “The penny began to Education around healthy and un- rals, and 95 clients engaged with our
calling me names and drop then. healthy relationships is combined support, excluding those who were
putting me down. He “It was through the with a focus on moving forward in a risk-assessed as high-risk and there-
used every weakness I had domestic violence positive direction. fore referred on to the appropriate
against me. support group that I began This group also provides an oppor- agency.
“For a long time I didn’t to see the patterns in his tunity for clients who have been pre- The Empower service is a commu-
realise I was being abused behaviour.” viously very isolated, to come together nity-based service funded by North-
because I thought of abuse Today, Hannah is thriving, and and meet other women for peer sup- umbria Police Crime Commissioner to
as a man coming home drunk has returned to education while port. work with low to medium-risk female
and hitting his wife. But actually, she raises her daughter alone. She Over the past year the programme victims of domestic abuse and sexual
the emotional side of what I went views her ex very differently now. has developed peer mentoring, with violence in the Gateshead area.
through was much tougher in some “When I look back I almost pity him,
ways.” because he’s missed out on her growing up.
After their daughter was born, the “But then I realise he chose me because I
situation went from bad to worse. was vulnerable and I don’t feel sorry for him
The abuse became physical on several anymore.”
www.oasiscommunityhousing.org @oasiscommunityhousing @oasiscomhousing
Life
We will work to enable ‘life in
all its fullness’ to be a reality
for those we work with
Our projects at a glance ...
Basis Beds
Basis Beds was informed in part by from private and social landlords
the Housing First Model, developed by Oasis Community Housing and
in New York City and successfully offered on a licence to Basis.
replicated beyond America. We’re currently using 22 proper-
Evolving from our No Second ties, with plans to extend this to 26
Night crash pads, Basis Beds, uses in the coming months.
independent properties through- Using this approach has seen
out Gateshead to house people who people make significant change as
have become homeless. living in good, safe accommodation
Michael found himself living in emergency They are the types of properties with extensive support has given
accommodation after a relationship available on the rented or social them the environment needed to
housing market, but are leased begin changing their lives.
breakdown. Working with our ASPIRE
team, he has turned his life around
M
Basis@Gateshead offers lifeline services for those who sleep
ICHAEL cared for his son for nine years, before rough, and provides a chance to get warm, clean and fed whilst staff sup-
a relationship breakdown meant he had to port them to overcome the roots of their homelessness
leave the family home. The walk-in service welcomed 635 people last year, outgrowing the old
His mental health suffered as a result, and address and moving to a larger property, also in the heart of Gateshead.
he couldn’t see a way back into employment. Basis Gateshead serves as a hub for our Crisis Services in Gateshead
Michael said: “I wanted to find work but had been out of em- around which we place our offers of Help to Rent, Basis Beds and the sup-
ployment for such a long time I didn’t know where to start.” port offered through our Fulfilling Lives, Help Through Crisis, and SIB pro-
We helped Michael find somewhere to live, and he was put grammes which offer vital ongoing support to those who require more
in touch with Holly, our Moving On Tyne and Wear navigator, than a brief intervention.
and part of the Aspire team.
Holly encouraged Michael to start getting out of the house
again; together they refreshed his CV and Michael attended Basis@Sunderland is our new service in Sunderland and our
a Ready for Work day. first replication of a Crisis Services project. Since opening in February
“I was originally scared but felt I could open up and got 2018 we have had over 2,100 interactions with people using the service.
more confident. I was offered a place on a course in con- It is the only service of its type in the city, addressing unmet needs and
struction where I’ve gained certificates and skills for work. linking well with existing services to do the deeper work around tackling
“I am getting out a lot more and feeling much better in homelessness.
myself. I’ve been offered work which I’m really excited about With the same offer as Basis Gateshead, we’re meeting people at the
starting. point of greatest need, offering a practical solution and a message of hope.
“Without the support I would’ve still been sitting in the In just six months, 74 people have been found accommodation, prevent-
house in my depression whereas now I feel I have a bright ing them from having to sleep rough.
future and a good life.”
The Social Impact Bond
The Social Impact Bond (SIB) de- advice and coaching to develop be-
livers an innovative new service haviour change.
for people who are rough sleep- The main focus is upon sup-
ing and/or entrenched in home- porting people to gain and sustain
less services across Newcastle and housing whilst working within a
PETER was referred to our Financial from his local Food Bank, emergency Gateshead. The service is a part- multidisciplinary team to address
Capability worker by his Talent Match funding for his gas and electricity nership between Oasis Community the individual’s holistic needs.
Coach after he told her that his and a hardship payment to cover the Housing and Changing Lives. Since the project started in Sep-
Universal Credit payments had been period until the sanction ended. This new project has worked to tember 2017 we have seen 98 in-
sanctioned because he had missed We also helped him to successfully build strong relationships with dividuals engaged, 31 of whom we
an appointment at the Job Centre. apply to a charity for a fee for a Debt clients and takes an asset-based have supported into accommoda-
He was unable to buy food, pay for Relief Order, which was subsequently approach to support motivation to- tion, crucially 87 of those on case
petrol or utilities in his flat and was approved and all of his debts were wards setting and achieving goals. load have taken part in a health as-
struggling to make his rent payments written off so he could have a fresh It offers emotional and practi- sessment that forms the platform for
and payments to other creditors. start and manage his finances better cal support that works for people positive conversation about possi-
Our Financial Capability worker in the future. who’ve suffered trauma, as well as ble change.
attended the Jobcentre with Peter to He also continued to work with
help him to re-engage with them to his Talent Match coach and found a
ensure that the sanction was brought job as a kitchen assistant in a restau-
to an end as soon as possible. rant. He impressed his employers so
During the duration of the sanction much that they are now supporting
we assisted Peter to access parcels him to train as a chef.
www.oasiscommunityhousing.org @oasiscommunityhousing @oasiscomhousing
Hope
We have a deep sense of hope that things can change and be
transformed, regardless of what the current circumstances may
say. We will encourage those we serve to dream big dreams Our projects at a glance ...
Fulfilling Lives
Fulfilling Lives is a partnership working with public services, the
programme that has worked with charitable sector and the public
103 adults in the past year, all with sector.
multiple complex needs. As they advocate for individu-
Oasis Community Housing and als, they propagate knowledge
core partners, Changing Lives and and best practice across Gates-
Mental Health Concern Group, head and Newcastle.
bring together best practice to The longevity of the programme
work with some of the hardest to and level of Big Lottery funding
reach people. allows real opportunity to make
LIZ has volunteered for Basis@ As well as practical support a serious impact upon the lives
Sunderland since its doors opened in for service users, the team cam- of people facing a range of chal-
February 2018. Befriending the service paign to change the system by lenges.
users is her way of answering the
parable that moves her the most. Help Through Crisis
I
Help Through Crisis is also a part- ed in partnership with Citizens
“ think about the Good Sa- ones that don’t make nership project that has reached Advice Gateshead, Your Voice
maritan. I think of all the it upset me the most. 800 people since 2016. Counts, and Gateshead Food Bank
people who just walked Sometimes I just have The target for year one was to with funding from the Big Lottery
past. It moves me every nothing left and I walk support 100 people through tai- Fund.
time I hear it.” home the long way lored advice and advocacy. The To date, more than 1708 hours
Liz may walk past many of the because I can’t bear actual figure achieved was 450; 367 have been spent delivering sup-
homeless people in Sunderland, to see people sleep- through Oasis Community Hous- port to clients.
but not before she’s stopped to ing rough any more, ing. This high level of support under-
say hello, buy them a coffee and but then I think a lot Help Through Crisis was found- pins the basis of the HTC project.
offer them a card for Basis@ about resilience. For
Sunderland.
She said: “I applied to volun-
me that’s a very strong
word.” Help To Rent Scheme
teer before the project even Her own resilience is
Help to Rent Scheme offers sup- their own home. The project works
opened. David [Smith] had deep-seated, and stems
port to individuals, couples and to secure tenancies with private
given a talk to our congregation from the example of her
families at risk of homelessness, landlords and then ensures that,
and it was the way he spoke. It parents.
to access housing in the Private through working with tenant and
was so genuine and from the “My mother was a very
Rented Sector by providing a bond landlord, the tenancy is success-
heart and the whole congrega- strong Catholic, and a
deposit. ful.
tion felt that. I’ve always been strong woman. We talked
The project has operated for the During the year we have created
upset when I see someone about religion a lot. She
past eight years and helps people 36 new tenancies with a high ten-
sleeping rough but there’s that had a tremendous sense of
avoid homelessness and settle in ancy sustainment level.
terrible debate about giving humour, in all the adversity
money. This felt like a way to she faced. My father wasn’t as
help that really would help.” religious but he’d always mow Volunteers
Each week, Liz helps visitors to the lawn for the nuns at the
the converted church by doing convent. They gave me a real During the year our work was supported by a thorough recruit-
their washing using the on-site work ethic and my first job was boosted by the time and skills ment, induction, training and
facilities. And while she loves to aged 12, as a paper girl. of 70 volunteers, who give 833.5 supervision programme, and
be practical and busy, the pro- “I didn’t understand when I hours of their time. built our volunteer programme
ject goes far beyond that. was a child, but my mother was We employed a Supporter En- to bring former service users on
Liz explained: “I bring honesty. feeding other families where Nor does Liz seek praise, in- gagement Officer who ensured board to share their valuable life
The men and women who come we lived. There was one family stead she is encouraged by the that every volunteer was well experience.
here know I’m honest. Not eve- down the road and I went to popularity of the drop-in.
ryone who comes here wants to school with their two children. She said: “I knew the project
talk to me – their lives are hard They were bullied because they would be wonderful. There are
enough – and that’s Ok. smelled bad. My mother used groups that meet here. There
“But some do, and we often to cook their meals and take is a comradery on the streets,
have a good laugh. When they them down. even though it can be very dan-
“They know it’s going to be a
start to see the need to change, “Now I can see that the hus- gerous too.
I pray all the time. Sometimes I band was an alcoholic. There “People come here because
just put a hand on their shoul- were a lot of situations like that they know it’s going to be a
calming place for an hour or two”
der and ask if they’re alright.” in those days. The effects of the calming place for an hour or
Volunteering alongside people war were still very much felt. two.
who are homeless can take an “My mother just did it, not “They wouldn’t keep coming
emotional toll. Liz said: “The looking for thanks.” back if there wasn’t hope here.”
www.oasiscommunityhousing.org @oasiscommunityhousing @oasiscomhousing
Thank Yous
We would like to thank everyone who has walked with us over the
past year. You have all made a remarkable contribution to the Oasis
Community Housing story and we hope to have you by our side for years
to come. Some of our wonderful supporters wish to remain anonymous,
but please know that you are very much included in our thanks.
Our staff, who go above and beyond The Thompson Fund Kingston Smith Group Services
Our service users – we exist to serve Zonta International London City Eaton Fund
you Land Aid M.G. Northumbria
Chowdene Community Church Northumbria Police and Crime The Barbour Foundation
Low Fell Churches Together Commissioner Supporting Victims Community Foundation serving
Calvary Christian Fellowship Fund Tyne and Wear and Northumberland
Heworth Christian Fellowship Gateshead Discretionary Housing Pot Changing Lives
Hope Church Sunderland Gateshead Housing Company Comic Relief
Parish of Swalwell and Blaydon Virgin Money Foundation MECC
Grasslands Church Nationwide Community Fund Community Foundation – Linden
St Gabriel’s The National Lottery Community Fund Family Funds
– Talent Match Phase 2 Buttle Trust
Bethany City Church
The National Lottery Community Team Enterprise Partnership
New Silksworth Methodist Church
Fund – Wise Steps (Wise Group)
St Andrew’s Roman Catholic CAF – M&S Spark
The National Lottery Community Fund
Heaton Road Church Bluestone Consortium
– Moving On Tyne Wear
Honor Oak Baptist Church Quaker Housing Trust
The National Lottery Community
The Well Community Church Fund – Help through Crisis StreetSmart
St Barnabas Church The National Lottery Community Fund William Leech
Kings Church Centre – Fulfilling Lives Sunderland Seedbed
St Clement with St Peter The National Lottery Community Henry Smith
Thank you also to the other Fund – Reaching Communities Wellesley Trust Fund at the
churches who have supported us The National Lottery Community Fund Community Foundation serving
this year, particularly those who – Talent Match Tyne and Wear and Northumberland
supported our ‘Giving a Home’ Community Foundation (Capacity Sir James Knott
Christmas campaign and those who Fund) MG Car Show Bywell
were part of the Churches Together Community Foundation (TGHC) William Lumsden
Homelessness Appeal for No.3.
Millhouses Charitable Trust Community Foundation Tyne & Wear
Mental Health Concern and Northumberland: Pattinsons
Barnes Junior School Building Society
ESF Community Group
Satellite Rotary Club of Sunderland Community Foundation Tyne & Wear
Big Lottery Fund
Each and every school across the and Northumberland: Newcastle
European Social Fund
region who supported our Giving a Building Society Community Fund
Home Campaign Jack Petchey Grant
London Community Foundation
Our magnificent Great North Run County Durham Community
County Durham Community
runners Foundation Nationwide Community
Foundation
Grants
Our outstanding team of volunteers
and our regular givers, who help us do Percy Bilton Charity Gateshead Council
so much more Tesco Community Grants Sunderland City Council
Sisters of Mercy Sunderland The Peckham Settlement Newcastle City Council
Wilmott Dixon London Move On Programme Southwark Council
The Polehanger Trust Greggs Foundation Croydon Council
www.oasiscommunityhousing.org @oasiscommunityhousing @oasiscomhousing
The Future
way that’s right for them. And our
mission is indeed growing, both in
size and breadth. In 2019, we will
be working in Grimsby for the first
time, where our Aspire team are
developing a much-needed Finan-
cial Capability service to compli-
ment the work that our colleagues
in Oasis Community Learning and
Oasis Community Partnerships
are already doing in education and
community development.
Meanwhile, important con-
versations are taking place in
Birmingham, Southampton,
Sunderland, South London
N
and across the North East
of England as we look to
OTHING stands still for
partner with stakeholders
long at Oasis Com-
who share in our vision of
munity Housing. Even
communities where eve-
since the close of our
ryone is included, belongs
financial year in Sep-
and has the chance to ful-
tember 2018, a lot has changed.
fil their God-given poten-
But our mission remains our solid
tial. By the end of the year
foundation. And ours is a mission
we expect to be extending
that must grow: we believe that
many of our programmes
our transformational work needs
to these locations.
to come to every town and city in
Furthermore, signifi-
the country where homelessness is
cant works to improve our
present.
housing projects in London
Behind that grand statement
and Gateshead are pro-
we have the same beating heart
gressing, Basis and Aspire
that launched our existence, back
have moved into their new
in 1984, when a group of young
home, Progress House in
Christians joined forces to offer af-
Gateshead, and our Empower
fordable accommodation to people
team are hosting new support
in need.
groups for those affected by
We want to help as much as ever,
domestic abuse.
and to make that help go further
And all the while, demand for
and deeper. Making this a reality
our projects and services continues
will involve millions of steps in the
to grow. This is a wonderful and ter-
right direction, and that journey has
rible thing. It means more people
already begun in earnest. For one,
know about us and believe we can
you may notice that we look a little
help them, and it also shows that
different! Our new brand and name
more people need help, that life for
was unveiled in November, just in
many is getting tougher.
time for our Christmas campaign –
I hope that this Annual Report
Giving a Home.
has given you just a small taste of
Throughout the festive season we
the vision that we have at Oasis
received a heartening amount of
Community Housing. Maybe it’s
interest, as our community flocked
inspired you to join us in offer-
to help, cramming our central office
“We are reaching more
ing Hope, Not Homelessness. If
and resource centres with generous
it has, don’t wait any longer: get
donations of clothing, toiletries and
in touch and help us deliver our
toys.
people with our message”
mission to address homelessness
We take this as clear evidence
wherever we find it.
that we are reaching more people
with our message, and welcom- David Smith
ing them to come and help in a Chief Executive
Designed by William Lumsden
@BBTakesPhotos
www.oasiscommunityhousing.org @oasiscommunityhousing @oasiscomhousingYou can also read
