SCSH and Scottish Churches Housing Action hosted two information sharing events on starter packs for homeless people. As a result of the first event in November 2004 a handbook on starter packs called 'Start Me Up' was published. This handbook draws on information from the day and provides practical information and advice on starter pack schemes.

Why Starter Packs are needed

Starter Packs help people establish a route out of homelessness. Many new tenancies fail in the initial stages Starter packs help people establish a route out of homelessness. Many new tenancies fail in the initial stages because of a lack of financial resources that provide the basic household items that turn a house into a home. By providing household essentials such as crockery, towels and bedding, starter packs can help eliminate the ‘revolving door’ experience of many homeless people.

Case Study from 'Start Me Up': Fleeing Violence

A young woman had fled from the Stirling area with her baby because of violence from her partner. On her return she was allocated a tenancy and was overwhelmed to receive a pack from Start-Up. When asked what she had appreciated most, she replied, “The cutlery—I was so fed up eating with my fingers!”

Following the second information sharing day in 2006 a new supplement for Start Me Up! has been produced to share the information gathtered at the event.

The new guide clearly demonstrates the environmental benefits of starter packs and includes information on:

• Survey of Starter Pack Schemes
• Doing the Best for the Environment
• Making the Most of Funding Opportunities
• Making the Most of Volunteering
• Developing your project.

Click here to download your free copy of Making the Most of Starter Packs.