Children and Families Enterprise (CAFE)

In harsh economic times, some families can be left behind meaning their children have little chance of faring any better in future. A downward spiral with little prospect of a way out means many families are struggling to cope and many are experience extreme disadvantage. Our London and Kent based CAFE projects support families like this to help them move their lives forward towards independence.

London

CAFE helps very excluded people in Tower Hamlets and Southwark to manage issues that might be affecting them, ranging from housing, finances to working with Social Services and Probation. The people helped on this project have very complex needs and our support includes helping with housing, looking for work or training, managing debts as well as accessing services helping with substance misuse and domestic abuse. It can also offer support around family mediation and discussions with schools. This work is kindly funded by Barclays.

For more information, please contact Michelle Gill, email michelle.gill@stgilestrust.org.uk or telephone 020 7708 7000.  Download a leaflet on the service here.

Kent

 

We run a project helping to tackle domestic violence in Kent and provide support to the children and families of people serving prison and community sentences. 

We also provide training and employment support to offenders in the region.The project has been running since October 2006, and work to date has been varied and innovative., with a large number of positive outcomes. Staff provide help and support with issues such as debt, housing and benefits but also work in creative ways with clients to offer assistance and practical solutions, for example helping with parenting skills, making friends, encouraging healthier lifestyles and building an individual's confidence.

The purpose of this work is to maintain families, secure accommodation, suppport people in completing their community sentences and reduce the risk of re-offending.  The work is funded by Kent Probation Service and Kent County Council.

It won a Charity Award and Justice Award in 2009.

We provide a sister service in Tower Hamlets, East London where one family member is involved in the criminal justice system. It works primarily with local Asian families and offers similar support around accommodation, finances, parenting and engaging with other agencies.

Click here to download a leaflet on CAFE.

Community Domestic Abuse Project

Commissioned by Kent Probation Service, this project aims to prevent abuse and promote the safety of women and children by offering support to men who want to change their behaviour.

The 27-week evening programme focuses on the intentions, beliefs and effects underpinning domestic abuse, including learning strategies for overcoming abusive and controlling behaviour. Partners of participants are supported throughout the programme.

The programme is available in the Kent area. People are referred by Kent Probation Service or can self-refer by contacting cdap@stgilestrust.org.uk or phoning 07933 359210.

The project was commended in the Justice Awards 2009.

Click here to download a leaflet on the project.