The impact
Snowdrop Project had previously rented premises, and their most recent office was prone to leaks. After being served notice as part of the landlord’s redevelopment plans, the charity was compelled to find a new home.
Owning their premises will aid Snowdrop’s growth, service provision and provide much needed security. The team aims to create a stable and welcoming ‘second home’ for clients where they can feel safe and cared for, and receive the services they need.
The building itself is larger than their current needs, providing the flexibility to expand in future. They are currently renting the surplus space to organisations whose services complement Snowdrop’s, including legal support for victims of trafficking, English language services, and a period poverty organisation offering free menstrual products. An added benefit is that hiring out rooms will generate rental income, helping Snowdrop to service their loan repayments.
“I want to create a community-feel where we collaborate, share best practice and share a staff room to build relationships,” explains Lara. “We really feel that buying the building will enable us to start the next chapter for the charity, it’s really significant.”
Adapting to the pandemic
During lockdown, Snowdrop Project adapted their client services. Casework support and counselling switched to telephone support – shorter and more regular contact that provided, for some, their only external contact. Regular risk assessments were carried out to assess the mental health of the survivors during this difficult period and food drops were arranged for those self-isolating.
A major project to create a ‘digital library’ and supply MiFi routers and tablets was launched to reduce social isolation and ensure clients could access essential public services such as schools, colleges, and GP appointments. Fundraising went online, with a virtual balloon race and pub quizzes. Further support from Covid emergency grants helped to fund the digital library and service adaptations. Thanks to the passion and creativity of their team and the dedication of their supporters, no services were cut, and no staff needed to be furloughed.