We currently have three active programmes and two others in development - for launch when time and funding permit.

These programmes are all aimed at specific groups.

However, as Thrift Urban has become more established, so we frequently find ourselves in contact with individuals in need who fall outside of the formal scope of the various projects, and in these cases we will always try to help too.

Central to Thrift Urban's attitude to its work is the belief that we should never turn anyone away. If we can give support and advice we will, and if we can't we will always refer on to other organisations who we know can.

We are not a huge national or international charity - and nor do we aim to be. We understand that by remaining small and tightly focussed we can better help those we are here to help and so we only work within the London boroughs.

Staying Put

Helping the elderly and frail stay in their homes rather than become institutionalized or homeless is a major plank of our work. We have a number of individuals referred to us under this scheme every year. The Staying Put programme reduces the isolation felt by many elderly people and better involves them in decisions about their own future. Thrift Urban can provide direct support with housing refurbishment, adaptation, modification and repair, through our own fully accountable and trustworthy building service. Fees are charged for this service that can be paid from a variety of sources - which we can help identify.

Someone To Turn To

This is a virtually open-ended project in terms of its practical scope. Our starting point is helping people with mental health issues, acting as a friend to take them through what can often seem a complicated maze of options and choices. The emphasis is very much on welfare aid, prevention and care; the day-to-day reality is that we find ourselves dealing with anything and everything, as required.

Living Over The Shop

A programme that creates urban regeneration without construction work, Living Over The Shop works with shop owners and commercial businesses to utilise the often empty accommodation above trade premises for housing. The shop owner or landlord might get a rent or might donate the otherwise dead space. As long as the basic building is suitable (e.g. has a separate entrance for the rooms above the trade premises), Thrift Urban can refurbish as required to provide housing for someone in need.

Ask Thrift Urban

This is intended as a tightly-defined programme, aimed at providing information and advice for vulnerable single/lone women who - for whatever reason - feel unable to turn to the authorities. We are in a position to build on the expertise and experience we have gained to date in offering this service. We know there exists a need for this service on the basis of referrals to our other programmes, including referrals of victims of domestic violence.

Schools Out

A project for the children of families designed to combat truancy and misbehaviour at school, this is another activity we know there is a need for on the basis of our work on other issues. The service's staff will act as mentors and 'buffers' for the children, with the intention both of keeping them off the streets and improving school attendance, and helping them with out-of-school issues too. A fee may be charged for this service.

Thrift Urban
Reg. Charity 1072534