No Fixed Abode is a directory of Christchurch accommodation and services for people without a safe and secure home.

This is the second edition of No Fixed Abode directory to be published. The first directory was produced in November 2005, after a task group on homelessness, involving the Christchurch City Mission, the Methodist Mission Christchurch, the Salvation Army, Street 10 and the Christchurch City Council, recommended that a directory of accommodation and support services be compiled.  The No Fixed Abode directory has been in heavy demand from individuals and social service agencies.  Two thousand copies of the first edition were printed and distributed.

The directory was created as a response to issues and needs experienced by those of ‘no fixed abode’ in Christchurch.  Being homeless is broadly defined as having inadequate access to safe and secure housing.  There is a long continuum of those who fit into this broad definition.  They include those who live on the streets, in cars or empty buildings; those who move frequently from one temporary shelter to another (including emergency accommodation, women’s refuges and those staying with family or friends); those living in boarding houses on a medium to long-term basis; and those who live in substandard housing.  A lack of adequate affordable housing is known to damage health and cause complications in many areas of life for individuals and families and can have negative effects on the growth and development of children.  Unstable housing has significant implications for the broader community service sector.

The No Fixed Abode directory collates a wide range of information on accommodation and related services for those experiencing difficulties securing adequate housing in Christchurch.  This reflects the complex causes of homelessness, in particular poverty, mental health issues, drug, alcohol and gambling issues, and leaving prison or institutional care.

Sections

• Accommodation – Emergency
• Accommodation – Up to 3 months
• Accommodation  - 3 months to 1 year
• Accommodation – Over 1 year
• Alcohol and Drug Services
• Budgeting and Financial Services
• Child and Family Services
• Clothing Assistance
• Community Support and Advocacy
• Counselling
• Drop-in Centres and Cafes
• Food Assistance
• Maori Support
• Medical Services (including Sexual Health)
• Mental Health Services
• Migrant and Refugee Support
• Older Persons Support
• Pacific Island Support
• Prisoner Re-integration Services
• Respite Care
• Stopping Violence and Abuse Services
• Washing Facilities
• Youth Services

No Fixed Abode has been developed by the Community Support Unit of the Christchurch City Council. It is available free through the Council’s offices, at 163-173 Tuam Street and at all Service Centres and libraries.

Any additions or changes can be made online through CINCH (Community INformation Christchurch) or by emailing: nofixedabode@ccc.govt.nz.

Download the print version [PDF 341KB] – current at February 2009.