Driving for Change Bus Aims to Support Rough Sleepers
Services offered include dentistry, vaccinations and advice
The Driving for Change Bus. Picture: Mickey Lee
September 6, 2024
Wandsworth Council says that significant progress is being made in providing support to rough sleepers thanks to the Driving for Change bus.
This is a mobile service that offers a range of services, including a dentist, hairdressing, testing and vaccinations, and access to various advisors. The bus also provides products, such as toothpaste and soap, as well as mobile phone charging and haircuts.
It was initially trialled for six months and, after the pilot was deemed to be successful, the contract for the service has been renewed for a further six months. Since the launch, the council says the bus has had one of the most successful uptakes London, averaging around 8 guests per day with almost 100 dental visits.
An event was held recently to celebrate the work the Driving for Change bush has been doing, which was attended by Mayor Sana Jafri and our Cabinet Member for Housing, Aydin Dikerdem.
Councillor Dikerdem said, “Engaging with rough sleepers can be a challenging process for a number of reasons. The Driving for Change bus is offering essential services that enables us to create a relationship with people that may not have wanted to engage with us before. This is a vital piece of work that helps us to create a fairer and more compassionate borough for all.”
One service user, ‘Steve’ (not their real name) approached the bus presenting with a skin rash and issues with his gums. As he was homeless and without a GP, he was unable to get a prescription.
He had been street homeless for over nine months after being evicted by the police from a property he was subletting. He has also been struggling with alcohol and drug addiction.
He was introduced to the drug support worker at the bus, and an appointment was arranged for him to meet with a worker at SPEAR. He also consulted with a dental nurse and received information about a barista training program.
The Driving for Change bus gave ‘Steve’ the opportunity to address ongoing issues and he was ultimately able to move out of London to be closer to family and prioritise his recovery.
Services offered include hairdressing. Picture: Mickey Lee
Mayor Jafri said, “This bus brings together a range of services and is a real testament to the strong partnerships we have. We are working closely with the NHS, SPEAR and Mungos to ensure that people presenting as homeless can access all the services they need, as well as advice, in safe, supportive environment.”
Keith Higham, Head of Impact at Change Please Foundation said, “The Driving for Change initiative at Change Please has been a beacon of hope for the homeless community in London over the past two years. Our commitment to driving positive change knows no bounds as we continue to uplift and empower individuals in the homeless community.”
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