You will be asked to complete a Short Housing Benefit form, with the assistance of a project worker. You must provide proof of your benefit (a letter from the DWP, for example) that gives Jimmy’s as your address, shows the type of benefit you are receiving, and the period of entitlement. You will be helped to obtain the ‘proof of benefit’ letter, and/or to complete any relevant change of address forms. Of course, we appreciate that not everyone can immediately prove their ID and benefit, and you will be given time and assistance to do so. Benefit will only be claimed for the nights when you are actually at Jimmy’s.
“Somewhere to start, a place to stay, with all this help I’ll find a way. Though Jimmy’s feet don’t walk this ground, his hopes and dreams are all around!!”
Del, guest
We will also ask you for information about your health (physical and mental), medication and any substance or alcohol problems. This information is of course confidential and would only be used if you became ill and we needed to advise the emergency services.
Once we have explained the rules and explained about our services, and asked you to sign a licence agreement with us, we will give you a brief a tour of Jimmy’s, and shown your bed and locker. We will also provide you with a hot meal and other refreshments.
Rest assured that all information discussed with the project worker on your arrival remains confidential within the team, except with your express prior permission.
Your length of stay is dependent on the 'Local Connections' policy operated by Cambridge at the time. At February 2010, there is no limit if you have a local connection with Cambridge (click here for further detail), but it is expected that you will work with Jimmy’s and other relevant agencies to secure more suitable, long-term accommodation. If you do not have a local connection, your position will be reviewed after 28 days, and your stay may be extended if, for example, you can show you are engaging with relevant agencies. Jimmy's will work with you to ensure that you are put in contact with appropriate outreach, accommodation, health or statutory organisations to ensure your stay at Jimmy’s is not put at risk, and you have a better opportunity of moving on to more secure accommodation.
