What we do
Our Vision
To be instrumental in transforming the lives of individuals within the London Borough of Merton and surrounding areas who are disadvantaged and/or excluded from the local community as a result of homelessness or vulnerable housing.
Our Purpose
Firstly, to meet the basic needs of people experiencing homelessness and vulnerably housed people, within Merton and surrounding areas. We build trust and provide support, information and assistance. In particular, we work with those who can sometimes fall between the gaps in public service provision due to challenging behaviours because of addiction, mental health or other issues. We are committed to helping them reduce the risks in their lives and supporting them to address their issues so they can achieve the life they want to live.
- To get a flavour of what we mean to our service users, read stories from the Drop-in and Winter Night Shelter.
Merton Homeless Drop-in
Our Drop-in is open every Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 2.30pm, at the Salvation Army Hall, 109 Kingston Road, London SW19 1LT. We are a short walk from South Wimbledon tube station and Merton Park tram stop. Local bus routes: 152, 131 and 57. Click here for a map
Our professional staff team, supported by more than 50 enthusiastic volunteers, welcome local street sleepers and vulnerably-housed people. We offer:
- Breakfast, hot drinks,snacks and a home-cooked lunch
- Shower and laundry facilities
- Clothes and food parcels
- Internet access
- Assistance with, and advice on, online job and housing applications and Universal Credit benefit claims
- Help in the search for work: assistance with writing CVs, job searches and interview practice.
- Help with access to local statutory and voluntary services such as Community Drug & Alcohol teams, Street Link, Merton Council housing services and the Merton Winter Night Shelter.
How accessible are the Drop-in premises?
We have full wheelchair access and there is an adapted shower and toilet.Merton Winter Night Shelter
The Shelter provides emergency accommodation between December and March. It comprises 12 hosting venues across Merton, providing safe accommodation over 98 nights.
- A report on the Night Shelter operation 2023/24 can be read here.