The idea
We are still finalising where the buses will be located. We currently work from a base in Croydon, but have identified potential sites elsewhere.
Buses4Homeless is a low cost holistic solution to homelessness.
With the help of our homeless guests & the local community, we can help create a unique space by converting buses into innovative eating, sleeping, learning & social spaces.
WE OFFER A 3 MONTH LIVE ON BOARD INTENSIVE PROGRAMME TO:
1) Help overcome issues that lead to homelessness
2) Assist with mental & physical well-being
3) Teach soft, vocational skills + general life management skills
4) Assist guests into apprenticeships/training/jobs/own startups
5) Re-engage guests back into the community
Our unique venue provides opportunities for positive community interaction with our guests.
BUS 4 SLEEPING = 16 x 6ft pods + downstairs TV room
BUS 4 EATING = 32 seater restaurant + commercial kitchen
BUS 4 LEARNING = 10 desk spaces + separate group session area
What we'll deliver
- Refurbish 4 x Double Decker Buses into Shelter, Dining & Learning Spaces for Homeless
- Provide 3 Month Intensive Programmes to engage and empower Homeless back into the community
- Provide a communal area where the whole community interact and engage with each other for the greater good of humanity.
Why it's a great idea
Two years ago, Dan Atkins (founder) discovered a gentleman sleeping rough in a luggage compartment of a coach. This distressed Dan immensely.
Later that day, he bought a double-decker bus and began refurbishing it into a home for the gentleman. Fast-forward two years, they are now very good friends and gladly the gentleman is back in employment, has a roof over his head and is happy.
That got Dan thinking… this could be achieved on a much bigger scale.
Homelessness has been an ongoing concern in the UK. London is worst affected. With a lack of social housing, there is a constant struggle to accommodate the homeless.
We will work intensively with our guests and equip them with the tools they need to succeed at being self supporting. We want to increase earning opportunities as that would provide them with more permanent housing solutions.
By giving back and working together as a community we can create happier neighbourhoods for all.
Steps to get it done
- Clear the current site, and prepare it for redevelopment
- Set up the new configuration of buses and containers
- Set up the new flooring for the common areas
- Set up the external furniture and equipment
- Complete the buses conversions
Buses 4 Homeless have teamed up Black Architecture to build expertise and increase credibility around the crowdfunding application. They are a feisty architectural practice specialising in designing buildings with sustainability at their core. They believe authentic sustainability isn't just about energy, it encompasses everything; social, economic and environmental. Black Architecture bring a creative curiosity to every building and are especially interested in the positive impact design can have on the mental well-being of our homeless guests.
The overall creative design incorporates safety, wellness, eco-friendly and sustainability factors.
Buses4homeless innovative solutions challenge expectations & imagination. We create interactional community spaces that break down barriers and people fall in love with.
We're all about collaborations and encourage local government, businesses, charities, colleges and volunteers to join us to help create BIG change.
