A HOSTEL for young homeless people has won an award for providing activities for its residents.

Stephen House, in Copeland Road, Walthamstow, provides accommodation and support to homeless people aged 17 to 30 years.

The hostel, which is run by national charity Chapter One, has been praised for involving its users in tasks including carrying out health and safety checks, representing residents at meetings and cleaning.

At the first Chapter One awards ceremony Stpehen House won the award for best service user involvement.

Susannah Cornhall, Stephen House project manager, said: “We try to create the atmosphere of a happy family home.

“Many of our residents are not used to a stable home, so tasks like helping with housework can be quite alien.

“Picking up a cleaning cloth is a big step for them.

“They begin to take a pride in their home and respect their fellow residents.

“They join in social and cultural activities, and start to develop the life skills they’ll need to live independently.”

For more information visit www.ch1.org.uk

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