Exploring homelessness: a day in the life at the SSJ academy
Homelessness is rarely caused by just one thing. Often, it’s linked to trauma, substance use, poor mental health, or lack of opportunity. At the Society of St James (SSJ), we take a person-centred approach to helping people rebuild their lives by offering support that meets them where they are.
In the final part of our Exploring Homelessness series, we’re spending the day with the SSJ Academy, a service that gives people space to grow, learn, and take steps towards a more secure and fulfilling future.
A community built on second chances
The SSJ Academy isn’t a traditional classroom. It’s a flexible programme that offers support with sport, education, volunteering, and employment all running at the same time across Hampshire.
People can get involved in different activities based on what they need and what they are ready for. Someone might be doing a sports session, attending a life skills workshop, and getting help to find a job or volunteer role all in the same week.
It’s all about giving people the right support, in the right way, at the right time helping them grow in confidence and build a better future.
Personalised support every step of the way
The Academy is led by a team of dedicated staff and peer mentors many with lived experience of homelessness or recovery themselves. This creates a safe, understanding space where people are treated as individuals and supported without judgment.
Each person’s journey is different. Some might want to build their skills before returning to work. Others might be rebuilding their self-esteem after a tough time. Staff work closely with every participant to set personal goals and help them take the steps needed to reach them.
More than just skills
For many, the Academy isn’t just about learning – it’s about rebuilding their identity and sense of purpose. Whether someone is in recovery, recently housed, or taking their first steps away from crisis, the Academy offers stability, structure, and encouragement.
It helps people reconnect with themselves, with others, and with a future they might not have thought possible.
Why it matters
In a world where people experiencing homelessness are often left behind, the SSJ Academy shows what’s possible when we offer long-term, joined-up support. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach – it’s tailored, flexible, and focused on real, lasting change.
The Academy also works closely with other SSJ services, creating a clear pathway from crisis to stability to independence.
How you can help
Spread awareness
Share this blog to help challenge stigma around homelessness, recovery, and mental health.
Donate
Support our work by making a donation. Every contribution helps us keep vital services like the Academy running.
Stay connected
Sign up to our newsletter to hear more about the work happening across SSJ. https://ssj.org.uk/newsletter/
Together, we can make sure no one is left behind, and that everyone has the chance to move forward.
About this series
Exploring Homelessness is a 3-part blog and video series taking you behind the scenes of the work we do at the Society of St James:
- Part 1: Inside our Portsmouth Rough Sleeping Support Service
- Part 2: A day with Kelly from our Homeless Drug & Alcohol Team
- Part 3: A look inside the SSJ Academy
Thank you being apart of the solution to ending homelessness locally.
📍 To learn more, visit: https://ssj.org.uk/sub-service/ssj-academy/