Public Transport Outreach

Some people who find themselves sleeping rough in London end up sleeping on the capital’s public transport system, particularly on night buses. In order to reach these people and provide them with the support they need to get off of the streets, Greater London Authority (GLA) and Transport for London (TfL) have commissioned Thames Reach to deliver an outreach service working exclusively on public transport.

Outreach works from 10.30pm until 5.00am every night of the week right across London’s public transport system, responding to referrals from Streetlink and information provided by TfL.

This small team works closely with many clients who may be reluctant to engage with outreach services. Many of the clients encountered by Outreach may have been sleeping rough long-term, some may also be struggling with poor mental or physical health, while others may face issues related to their immigration status that mean they’re unable to receive the support they need.

As well as helping to get people off of the streets, the team also directs clients without access to public funds towards day centres and other services where they can receive much needed support. They also help clients to access healthcare and benefit advice, as well as working closely with No Second Night Out – the service helping people who find themselves sleeping rough in London for the first time.