Arlington

Arlington is a pioneering homeless shelter in Camden which actively supports and rehabilitates residents, housing them temporarily and aiding their transition back into mainstream society. They provide opportunities to increase employment skills and encourage residents to develop new aspirations.

Over the course of three months Benjamin taught a specially developed slipper making course to participants at Arlington, three of which were previously homeless and two that were at high risk of homelessness. During this time under Benjamin’s supervision the group learnt step by step how to make a pair of slippers by hand which they customised with their own art work. The intention of the project was not to create jobs as master shoe makers but to provide an inclusive, engaging social environment. In overcoming multiple challenges and completing their slippers on time the participants achieved a rewarding level of success inspiring feelings of fulfilment, pride and achievement.

This project was inspired by the photocopied pages of a homeless lady’s life story which Benjamin paid £6 for in 2010. Funded in part by The Leathersellers’ Company.