We are accepting self referrals, and referrals from organisations or agencies in Waltham Forest and neighbouring boroughs.

Information for Referring Agencies

Support is provided through a Personalised Support Plan for every individual.

We establish the level of need during the initial interview. Because we accept high- medium- and low-support needs’ clients, once we accept a person on the waiting list (if we do not have a room void) we determine where best to place the individual during the initial interview.

The maximum stay at Branches is 18 months. The ideal outcome at the end of a stay is a level of independence to be supported to move into PRS. If not achieved, then a move to an accommodation with floating support.  Every person is different and for some a move on is relatively quick, but we are realistic and understand that not every person can achieve independent living within this 18-month time frame.

Everyone coming into our hostel is on a six-week probationary Licence (assessment period). During this time, an individual’s needs are assessed, and engagement is measured, with their assigned Support Worker. Once in Branches, clients are expected to engage with local drug and alcohol services or MH services, where these support needs are identified.

At the end of the six-week assessment period, if a person is engaging well with their Support Worker and making progress the Licence will be reviewed and continue.

Our criteria:

• Local connection to the borough (3 out of the last 5 years; or 6 of the last 12 months)
• Have a support need, although we do accept referrals for low support need individuals.
• Have recourse to public funds and be entitled to welfare benefits such as HB/ UC.

 To process your referral please send an email to the address below and we will send you our referral form to complete.

referrals@wfcbranches.org.uk

When filling out the form please:

• Complete all sections on the form.
• Cross out all sections of the form that are not relevant with an ‘x’;
• Complete the ‘Client Consent’ and ‘Information Sharing’ sections of the form.
• Provide all supporting documents with the Branches Referral Form, such as
• Proof of ID and National Insurance number (passport, birth certificate, driving licence)
• 3 months’ bank statements

Welfare Benefits – Proof of Entitlement

(See page 14 on the Referral Form – Supporting Document Checklist – and tick all that apply.

Please note – we are only able to process referrals if  the supporting information is sent with the referral form.

If you have any questions, please contact our team –  referrals@wfcbranches.org.uk