Alleyn's Extends Outreach to Homeless Community

This academic year, we extended the Alleyn's Outreach programme to partner with the volunteer-led organisation Under One Sky which provides food, lifesaving supplies and human connection to members of the homeless community.

The economic crisis caused by the pandemic plunged almost 700,000 people, including 120,000 children in the UK into poverty and this impact has seen an alarming increase in numbers forced to live on our streets. Over 20 Year 12 pupils volunteered to work with the organisation which enables them to engage directly with and help members of the London homeless community. Every Monday afternoon, during their Enrichment sessions, they embark on a designated skywalk in Central London, stopping to talk, provide food, supplies and support. We are grateful to Charity Co-ordinator Ali Seal who organised the collection of emergency supplies including items such as sleeping bags, gloves and hats and thank all the members of the Alleyn’s school community who contributed. This vital and engaging new Outreach initiative affords our students an indispensable and distinct educational experience outside of the classroom; this lived experience enables them to not only make a direct and crucial impact within their community but helps to shape them as the leaders of change in the future.

Mikkel Juel Iverson, Founder, Under One Sky

Life is a learning journey. Much can be learned from stretching out a hand to those cast out by society. All credit to Alleyn’s school for giving their students the chance to do exactly that. I have yet to meet a person who hasn’t become more compassionate from working with Under One Sky. Having the upcoming generation of decision makers take part in our work fills my heart with joy today and hope for tomorrow.

Ella Year 12

I wanted to volunteer for this outreach opportunity as the idea of being able to brighten even one person’s day is something that appealed to me greatly. This is a vital, educational experience as it is a way to widen your knowledge about what it truly means to be homeless and helps me see the situation some people are living in first hand. This experience, so far, has been extremely rewarding. It has shown me how important helping the wider community is, especially for young people who often spend time with the same group of people. The act of walking around central London and distributing vital provisions is eye opening and allows you to connect on a more personal level with the homeless community. These one-on-one chats are sometimes the first conversations they may have had in days. This whole experience has helped me appreciate all I have been given in my life, and how easily it can be taken away. After going on the walk every Monday, I come home feeling empowered and motivated to raise awareness of just how lonely life on the streets can be. I will continue to recommend this experience to many people and hope everyone can have a chance to see for themselves how impactful this organisation is.

By Victoria Arter-Furlong, Assistant Director of Drama, Outreach Co-ordinator

Watch the video about Under One Sky here.