Who we are
Kemmyrk was formed to help homeless people on the Isle of Man.
Homeless people include not only those with no accommodation, but also those living somewhere that is unsuitable, unsafe or short term. Our vision is that everone has the opportunity to access housing appropriate to their need.
Kemmyrk is Manx for a place of refuge, shelter or protection.
Our aims and objectives
- To relieve hardship and distress amongst homeless people and those living in adverse housing conditions
- To establish partnerships and develop services in conjunction with public, private and charitable bodies
- To raise funds and make monies available to support such activities
- To promote and support the provision of accommodation for homeless people and the provision of related services
- To conduct and procure research concerning homelessness
- To educate the public concerning the nature, causes and effects of homelessness
- To identify and promote potential opportunities for homeless people
- To work towards prevention of homelessness
The work we do
Nightstop: This provides emergency short term accommodation with host families and appropriate support for youngsters who find themselves homeless. Under this scheme volunteer hosts will be asked to provide up to three night’s accommodation for 16 - 25 year olds. The safety of host families is of paramount importance. It means youngsters who are drunk, on drugs or have committed violent or sexual offences won't be accepted.
Drop In Information: We are pleased that we are now offering the services from our office at 9 Myrtle Street at the times indicated -
Tuesday: Doctor - 1.30 pm, Wednesday: Benefits - 11.00 am to 12.00 noon and Community Health Visitor 11.00 am to 12.00 noon, Thursday: Careers - 2.00 pm to 3.00 pm, Friday: Dentist - 11.00 am to 12.00 noon and Hairdresser 9.30 am to 11.30 am (Hairdresser starting from 16th April 2010).
Intermediary Agency: It is hoped to create an independent intermediary agency to work with tenants and landlords (public and private) to mediate on issues that put tenancies at risk and improve standards and maintenance of accommodation.
Database: Most homeless people are ‘invisible’. In order to establish the true nature and extent of homelessness on the Island, a confidential database has been set up which allows statutory, voluntary and charitable organisation to forward details of the homeless for inclusion.
How you can help us
Host Families and Volunteers: We are looking for host families to help with the Nightstop scheme. Anyone wishing to get involved or know more about either project should contact Fiona Robinson.
Donations: Donations for any of our projects would be most welcome and we would be delighted to support with any fundraising ideas.
Kemmyrk have set up an account with www.easyfundraising.org.uk, please take a look at this site. You do your normal shopping through the internet and retailers donate money to your chose charity, ie Kemmyrk. For further information please contact info@kemmyrk.im.
APPEAL
Volunteer required -
We are looking for an enthusiastic volunteer. The position will entail working with young people on various needs from budgeting tasks and accommodation seeking to social and emotional support. Full training will be given. Hours to suit. An interest in Social Sciences or Social Work would be beneficial to both parties. Please call Joanna on 263476 or 686493.
Treasurer required -
We are looking for a Treasurer on a voluntary basis. Enquiries to Major Nigel Collins, please telephone 472958.
Fundraiser required -
We are looking for an enthusiastic volunteer fundraiser to raise funds for Kemmyrk and to coordinate events where necessary. The position will be part time (hours to suit), and would be ideal for someone with an interest and a passion for the ethos of Kemmyrk helping to raise funds for the preventions and projects we are currently running. Please call Fiona Robinson on 675507 for further details.
Urgent Appeal -
We have an urgent appeal for funding for (or a donation of) a portable 6 screen display board and a laptop computer. We have many upcoming events at which we would like to promote Kemmyrk. If you would like to help, please contact Fiona or Joanne - we will recognise any sponsors. Thank you very much.
Anyone wishing to contact Julie Peel about the Nightstop scheme or Peer Education can do so on 01624 675507/07624 248193 or julie.peel@kemmyrk.im.
Joanna Chapman, the Housing Support Co-ordinator, can be contacted on 01624 675507/07624 263476 or joanna.chapman@kemmyrk.im.
All other queries about homelessness should continue to be directed to Fiona Robinson, Homelessness Projects Development Officer at 9 Myrtle Street, Douglas IM1 1ED 01624 675507 or fiona.robinson2@gov.im.
