Emergency Bed Unit

The unit houses four individual emergency bedrooms. These have both a preventative purpose and provide an escape route from rough sleeping or other forms of homelessness. This facility is dedicated to working with homeless, vulnerable women at risk of serious physical, mental or emotional abuse.

Those at risk of experiencing first time homelessness are able to use one of our bedrooms as a means of obtaining a safe and secure environment which can help prevent the descent into long-term homelessness or rough sleeping and the associated risks this brings. Our project workers meet daily with emergency beds residents to provide support leading to longer term accommodation, as well as working with them to identify any underlying issues . Many of the emergency bed residents have been affected by relationship breakdown, domestic violence and unemployment. Prevention of homelessness is a key aspect of the work of the Emergency Bed Unit.

As well as providing a secure environment- food, clothing and drinks are also made available for residents who during their three night stay are given every opportunity to secure a safer and improved future. They are put in touch with key agencies and support networks or, where appropriate, long term beds within The Marylebone Project.

Emergency Beds are a well used part of our service and make a significant difference in the lives of women who need to use this facility. Often in immediate crisis, and at times affected by the trauma of fleeing from domestic violence, residents benefit from skilled and sensitive support provided by our trained Project Workers. The safety and security offered by the unit scores highly in our regular resident surveys.

The Facts

• Open and accessible 365 days a year. Any time day or night.
• Up to 487 women annually are served by our emergency beds.
• With interviews, resettlement work, emotional and practical support our, Project workers will spend an estimated 3651 hours per annum working with residents.
• It costs  £201 per day in rent, grant and food to run the Unit.
• Vulnerable residents are referred on for specialist help for difficulties such as alcohol or drug misuse, and mental or physical health needs.
• Residents are assisted to identify and claim any benefits to which they are entitled.
• Each emergency bed resident has their own individual room with a sink.
• Regular daily private meetings are held with a project worker to support the resident.

Marylebone Project, 1 - 5 Cosway Street, London NW1 5NR
Tel: 020 7262 3818, Fax: 020 7402 8752
E-mail: bradbury@maryleboneproject.org.uk