we provide a hot meal and access to clothing and washing facilities as well as internet access and activities. We also use the time to support people trying to link with services and provide practical help to achieve this.

Probably the thing our clients appreciate most about this time is the opportunity to take a break from the challenges of life on the city's streets and the chance to spend time talking to someone that is able to listen and empathise with their circumstances to support with making the first steps to change them. 

Our Day Centre is a damp centre - meaning we provide support and access to individuals whilst they may be under the influence, so long as no substances are brought onto the premises. This allows people who are struggling with dependency issues to still have access to the support they need. We are the only damp centre in Sheffield.

FOOD AND CLOTHING

At Ben's we understand that one of the many challenges faced by our clients is nutrition. The effect of our clients lifestyle on their physical health makes daily tasks even more challenging and limits the opportunity for making better choices for the future. By simply offering breakfast and a hot meal at lunch time we are able to give our clients a much better chance of bettering their circumstances, should they wish to. 

We also offer clothing, sleeping bags and rucksacks. This is especially needed during the winter months and means that people don’t have to remain in the wet and dirty clothes they arrive in. Practically this makes it easier to get and remain warm, but also gives the individual a little more dignity and self respect. Our clothing is provided by Sharewear. They take donations of clothing from the public and then provide us with the clothing we need to best support our clients.

COMMUNICATION AND INTERNET ACCESS

Having no permanent address or access to the internet in todays society presents challenges for individuals accessing services. At Ben’s, clients can use a computer, read the latest news, use a phone to call family or make appointments or use our centre as a care of address location so clients can receive mail.

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

We have a community district nurse visit to maintain clients general health, dress wounds and give health advice. As well as this, we have specific practitioners that run a blood borne virus clinic in our private treatment room. Sanitary products, sun-cream and other health-care essentials are also available to help keep individuals safe and in good health. We have recently installed a wet room to allow access to washing facilities.

As well as the health of our clients, we also work with the Blue Cross animal charity here in Sheffield to maintain the wellbeing of our clients important furry companions and offer food and health checks for them.

ADVICE AND SUPPORT

A number of Ben's clients have difficulty accessing traditional services in the city, this can make moving forward even more challenging. Ben's Centre staff are able to support the clients to make appointments and phone calls to services, this support and advice can often be the difference that makes for a more positive outcome. Staff have regular updates on services on offer in the city and monitor and support clients after a referral has been made to ensure they receive the best support and opportunities.