When the Vicar's Relief Fund went digital in 2014 we realised how many frontline workers were accessing and using it. Alongside this, we also recognised the wide range of roles that were represented by those supporting people experiencing homelessness. We saw this as an opportunity to do more to directly support frontline staff so in 2016 the St Martin-in-the-Fields Charity set up the Frontline Network. 

The Frontline Network works both nationally across the whole of the UK and on a more local level with partner organisations. Our work aims to support frontline staff, amplify their voices and highlight best practice in the sector.  

At a national level

We work across the UK to support frontline staff who are working with people who are experiencing homelessness. One way we do this is by providing funding to staff. The Training Fund can help cover training costs, we can provide up to £500 for individual training or up to £1,500 if your organisation wants to run group training.

We also provide opportunities for staff to come together and share your experiences and expertise at our Annual Conference and other events. You can also check out our What's On page, that promotes events that are free or up to £30. We also provide a regular opportunity to have your say through our Annual Frontline Worker Survey.

Our News and Views section also shares blogs and best practice from across the UK and we have a monthly e-news that goes out to our network members.

At a local level

Since 2016, we have been working with partner organisations across the UK. Our Partners have helped us to build the Frontline Network’s work at a local level, by facilitating their Local Network activities and regularly bringing together frontline workers.

Our Partners provide:

• Opportunities for frontline workers to regularly come together in their areas - to network, share experiences and expertise
• The potential to explore solutions to key issues affecting staff and people they are supporting
• Links between the frontline voice and decision makers

Our Partners are:

• Cyrenians - Scottish Frontline Network
• Cymorth Cymru - Frontline Network Wales
• Homeless Connect - Northern Ireland Frontline Network
• Justlife - Brighton and Hove Frontline Network
• Praxis - Pan-London Migrant Frontline Network
• Street Life Trust - Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde Frontline Network
• Coventry Citizens Advice - Coventry Frontline Network
• Basis Yorkshire in partnership with Together Women and Leeds Women’s Aid - Leeds Women’s Homelessness and Housing Frontline Network

To hear updates from the Frontline Network, sign up to our newsletter here.