Our Partners
Since Deptford First started working with local partners to distribute funds, we have partnered with a number of well-established organisations.
Current Partners
Lewisham + Bromley Credit Union
Lewisham + Bromley Credit Union is a not for profit financial co-operative run for and by its members, offering ethical loans and savings for those living or working in the boroughs of Lewisham or Bromley.
It has several branches across Lewisham, including at New Cross Learning in Lewisham North.
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The Deptford First trustees started working with the credit union in late 2021 when speaking to organisations who were supporting people through the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis.
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Many of its members are in need of extra financial support and credit union staff are using money from Deptford First to give small grants to cover the cost of essentials, like food shopping and utility bills.
How Are We Helping?
Universal Credit Delays
A 35-year-old mother of three who was on maternity leave was a member of the credit union and managing her money well. When she had to move to Universal Credit due to complications, the delay in accessing funds coupled with increases in utility bills put her in a difficult place financially. The credit union was able to help by giving her £40 from Deptford First to help pay the bills.
New Appliances
A 28-year old mum of two had to replace her cooker, leaving her with insufficient funds to purchase food etc. The credit union was unable to help through their usual channels as she already had three loans and any further lending would have been unaffordable. Deptford First gave £40 to purchase food items and utilities.
Heating & Eating
A single father who had been caring for his elderly parents was hit by the 'bedroom tax' after they passed away. His house was very cold and he often had to borrow money to pay for gas and electricity. £40 from Deptford First funds enabled him to cover the utility bills so he could afford to buy decent food.
Past Partners
Lewisham Refugee & Migrant Network
LRMN is a leading south London refugee and migrants' rights charity. Its advice service helps with immigration, housing, welfare and wellbeing issues. LRMN also campaigns to ensure Lewisham remains a Borough of Sanctuary and on national issues affecting its service users.
999 Club
The 999 Club, based in Deptford, has been working with homeless people and those at risk of becoming homeless for over 30 years. As well as running a day centre, the charity offers advice on housing and employment. Its aim is to ensure nobody in south east London needs to sleep on the streets.
Deptford Reach
Sadly now closed, Deptford Reach was a day centre for homeless people which provided support and advice on benefits, housing, employment, debt, health and wellbeing.
Bench Outreach
Bench Outreach, based in Deptford, works with people experiencing homelessness and social exclusion. Using the Housing First model, it works with local authorities, specialist health services, and community partners to ensure that clients receive the wraparound support they need.
Besson Street Trust
Besson Street Trust (formerly New Cross Gate Trust) is a community organisation providing a wide range of services in the New Cross area. Founded almost 20 years ago, the trust offers a range of free or low-cost activities and courses, as well as personalised support with issues such as DWP form-filling, liaising with landlords and preparing for an interview.
Community Advice Works
Community Advice Works (formerly 170 Community Project) is based in New Cross and has been delivering a free and confidential welfare, advice and information service for more than 50 years. It is the main general advice service for residents in the north of Lewisham and offers both drop ins and a telephone service.