The following statements define the ethos and values of Thames Reach:
1. Homelessness
We believe that homelessness and its effects are a great injustice and that anyone can become homeless.
From our experience we know that the route out of homelessness can be long and painful. We are committed to never giving up on people, no matter how complex, chaotic or challenging they may be.
2. Service users
We are passionate in our belief that people can make real and lasting changes in their lives. We have the highest aspirations and respect for our service users and will never be indifferent to their individual needs.
3. Staff
Thames Reach’s staff are characterised by their compassion, integrity, professionalism and commitment.
Unstinting support will be given to staff making decisions in the best interests of service users, trusting in their ability to work autonomously and providing protection from undue risk.
4. Integrity of the whole
The success of Thames Reach depends on the integrity of the whole body. We believe passionately in achieving trust and mutual respect between the different parts of the organisation to achieve this objective.
5. Partnership
We believe our aims can only be achieved by working in partnership with others: we know we do not have all the solutions.
We will generously give time, resources and expertise to others if the ultimate outcome gets us closer to our goal of ending street homelessness.
6. Free from dogma
Thames Reach will be renowned for its open-mindedness, creativity, flexibility and refusal to allow a rigid approach to reduce its effectiveness or inhibit its actions.
7. Our messages
Our strength lies in knowing what is happening 'on the ground' and we will use this knowledge to make an impact at the very highest level, especially by giving our service users the chance to speak directly to those with influence and power.
We will always ‘tell it as it is’, presenting information and offering views with integrity and honesty, even when the message may be unpopular.
15th January 2004
