This morning we went and met the lovely Mike from SCT, where we are pleased to say we will be volunteering over the next coming weeks at the drop-in they run. Spitalfields Crypt Trust was founded in 1965, to help people facing homelessness and drug and alcohol addictions to transform their lives.
'From the homeless and people suffering from addictions to others who face social isolation, we provide food and drink, toiletries and clothes. Drop-in users can access some of our other services on SCT’s recovery pathway, such as Acorn House, our residential recovery hostel and our Training and Development center.'
Mike gave us a tour around all of the facilities they have there - and they have so many! It was really inspiring to see the work they do in the community, helping homeless people in rehabilitation and recovery but also in integrating back into society. This is done through the drop-in service, located in the heart of Shoreditch, it is a chance for a hot meal as well as so much more; it provides a safe environment and a place to chat through problems or issues. Additionally, there are many workshops including art workshops, woodwork, IT and cookery that are run by the SCT solely off of donations and good-will.
'At our Training and Development Centre, we offer courses that improve your self-esteem, develop your creativity and give you more life skills – all the while settling you into a productive routine. Students can also get work experience and training at our social enterprises. Our specialist addiction team dig deep to find out what people are really interested in doing in life, then help them find a course, placement or job to suit their ambitions. We’ve also helped people start their own business.'
We finished by sitting down for a coffee at the lovely - very Shoreditch - cafe Paper & Cup, which was a great chance to discuss even more of what the charity does and there are some amazing events coming up! - including an abseil, which we will keep you posted on. The Cafe is cute and quirky serving delicious pastries and sandwiches as well as hot drinks, as well as housing a variety of books to read while you're there or to buy and take away - it is even better that the proceeds all go back into the work that the SCT does for the community so if you in the Shoreditch area you should definitely pop in!
