WESTMINSTER SHORT LIFE HOUSING

This is an example of what it is possible to do with WSLH. 121 Labroke Grove W11 was previously a health clinic, and fell empty in 1990. The owners (the Roman Catholic Diocese of Westminster) decided to licence it to us, and bring it back into residential use. We tendered out the renovation work to CATCH, who also organised the necessary funding from the Housing Corporation's mini-HAG scheme. The difference, we feel is striking, having taken a previously run-down commercial property and making it a decent place for people to live.

We managed to house 10 WSLH members at this address until 1994, when the property was handed back to the owners.

Although we provide basic facilities and maintenance, more often than not the properties are in need of decoration, and the licensees usually do this work themselves. With a bit of enthusiasm and initiative, a previously grotty place can be transformed into a safe, comfortable home.