In July 2021 we began delivering advice services through Shaw Trust Activity Hubs as part of a project funded specifically to help reduce re-offending. The key aims of these services are to:
- Actively engage participants who have complex or multiple barriers, and who are unlikely to benefit from other services, offering support through 1-2-1 and group settings.
- Support a recovery journey led by the participant to encourage sustained engagement and progression.
- Develop an individual’s life skills, communication and self-worth in preparation for the next steps on their journey, and signposting to other provisions as needed.
- Reduce and remove barriers to community reintegration.
These services are delivered at 10 sites across the West Midlands, East Midlands and East of England
Partnership
The Services
Debt, Money and Budgeting Advice
- Exploring and recording financial income and expenditure
- Checking benefit entitlement
- Looking at ways to increase income, reduce spending and find the best value for money
- Creating a budget to take better control of the finances in the future
- Contacting creditors to confirm any debt; to setup or explore reducing an instalment plan, apply for a payment holiday and, where possible, write off specific debt
Accommodation Advice
- Looking at the current housing situation
- Assisting with emergency housing and repairs
- Exploring potential housing changes – taking into account rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, breach of tenancy etc.
- Checking restrictions on residency under licence
- General advice and support with identifying, securing and sustaining tenancies
Access to Services
- Securing identification
- Opening a bank account
- Assisting with self-disclosure statements
- Offering welfare advice
- Applying for grants and funding
Gambling Support
- Exploring gambling habits
- Offering workbooks containing useful advice and tips
- Setting up an action plan
- Referral to a 24-hour support line
Accessing Activity Hubs
For more information, including eligibility and how to access services at Activity Hubs, please see further details via the Shaw Trust website.