ok so l'm really trying to work out what to do. My backstory is that l quit my job etc and turned my back on my family who were unimpressed that l gave it all up to travel around Canada. But l did it and l've lived on the streets out here every now and again but l've survived and had an amazing experience. I say out here because at the end of August l fly back to London. I have nowhere to go, no money when l return & no roof so that l can get a postal address for JSA till l find a job. So l have been searching the net for info on squatting. It's not something l've every done and l think its my best bet for surviving in London, problem is when l get in London where the hell do l find others to squat with??? So l was wondering if maybe anyone could advise me. Cheers
Dygash aka Luke
Hi
I had a little involvement with the squatting scene in London in the late 80’s, both sides of the river. There used to be a big squatting movement around Stoke Newington, but the council carried out some heavy handed evictions that made the headlines at the time. I’d be interested in talking to anybody who was there. I’m not sure what the current squatting scene looks like, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it has been largely curtailed by council flat sell-offs and so on.
What I’m about to say is probably a bit unfair, but I’m exaggerating to make a point. I have to say in retrospect, that the evictions were made easier due to the quite well-to-do backgrounds of a lot of the squatters. Many of them were students, dilettantes and politicos.
I’m a Citizen’s Advice Bureau volunteer, so I know a little bit about housing. It’s not right for me to give you advice about housing and benefits without knowing more about your situation, but I strongly recommend you chat to the local Citizens Advice Bureau connected to where you’re originally from. You’ve left it a bit late, but they should be able to help you sort something out for yourself.
If you’re thinking of turning up in London, finding a squat and claiming benefit, then you are going to be begging on the streets in no time unless you can know some friends who are already there.
From what I know, your local council has a statuary obligation to house you, although crisis accommodation can be a bit insalubrious. If you want to enjoy the bright lights of the big smoke you’re better off using your existing resources to work and save and then launch whatever fabulous career in The City you’ve got in mind for yourself.
I’d be interested to hear some other people’s thoughts, sorry if I’m coming over a bit “old” on you. I have to say that being chased by cops around North Peckham estate certainly gets the old blood pumping, it’d probably give me a heart attack nowadays.
As a matter of interest, does anyone know what’s going on at 121 Railton Road nowadays?
Love
Chris