We provide opportunities John is 28 and has been in the care system for most of his life. He’s had some jobs and lived independently, but personal issues held him back — until he came to Base33.
Quick Facts • Base33 is in our newly refurbished premises on Boyer Street. Formerly Derby’s Night Shelter, this building has served as a hub for homeless people for almost a decade • As a registered UK Online Centre, Base33 provides training alongside the activities to give users more opportunities to improve their life chances • We have developed close links with the community, including a key partnership with the Big Issue, who have a base within the building
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“Lots of things have changed since I started coming to Base33. I’ve recently moved into my own flat and I am hoping to get a job soon.”
“It’s wonderful to see people like John and Mervyn increase in confidence and wellbeing ”
John is a familiar face at Base33. Standing for Boyer Street Activities & Social Enterprise at 33 Boyer Street, the centre provides a modern, friendly and relaxed environment for homeless people to build their skills, meet new people, gain confidence or simply escape from day-to-day life.
Base33 activities in order of popularity
Working on the mosaic
the centre, helping other users and introducing new attendees.
Football Cooking
Arts & Crafts
Computer Skills Social Time
Country Walks
Pampering & Relaxation Gardening
Cycling Woodworking Painting & Decorating
John regularly attends the sessions, which include activities such as football, country walks, art, gardening, woodwork, cooking and computer skills. “My confidence has grown and I have more structure in my life.” John has gained in confidence so much that he has taken on a key role at
It’s not only activities on offer; 29 people have benefited from the one-to-one employability sessions delivered from the centre, and two new social enterprises are almost up and running. “The mosaics have been the most rewarding activity”, says Activities Co-ordinator, Pippa WoodbridgeStocks. “Everyone works together and can clearly see the results of their efforts.” “Some of our users are reluctant at first, like Mervyn for example. He used to just come for the cooking — he thought he couldn’t do art. Now he comes all the time and takes part in the art and woodworking sessions. He’s recently completed a woodworking qualification. “The opportunities we provide here can have huge benefits for our clients. It’s wonderful to see people like John and Mervyn increase in confidence and wellbeing as they attend more and more sessions.” This year 195 people have benefited from taking part in activities, training and daytrips run from Base33.
Base33