195 Free School: 18th – 24th November

The 195 free school is a week-long (18th – 24th November 2013) series of grassroots events such as presentations, discussions and skill-shares and much more. The event is free and open to all. An up-to-date calendar of free school events can be accessed here: http://socialcentre.org.uk/events [via PC], http://socialcentre.org.uk/events-list/ [via smart phone] and contact email is 195[at]socialcentre.org.uk. Workshops and events range from queer politics to welding, with a special Housing Day on Thursday 21st November from 12 noon (see the programme below). SQUASH thoroughly recommend this event for anyone interested in squats and squatting, with the chance to hear from voluntary groups working on the frontline of squatting, housing and homelessness, and get the latest updates on legal rights.

Venue: 195 Mare Street, London E8 3QE

THURSDAY 21ST NOVEMBER: Housing Events

12:00 Benefits advice and homeless survival guide

15:00 Meet the networks

15:30 Lock and barricade workshop

16:00 Localism Act

16:30 Housing Action Southwark and Lambeth

16:30 Re-branding squatting

17:00 Boycott Workfare

17:00 A.S.S. Civil court procedure etc.

18:30 Creating community in the private rented sector (DIGS)

18:30 Squatters Legal Network workshop

19:00 Peoples Kitchen and Cinema

19:00 All London Squatters Meeting

About 195 Mare Street

from their About Page: http://socialcentre.org.uk/about/

mare street

“We are an open space where people can be comfortable with themselves, express their creativity, hang out, make new friends, network and attend various workshops and events. Everyone is welcome, whatever culture or background you have experienced, here you can share your journey and we will share ours. The first spark of positive change in our world is when we meet and connect with others, sharing our joy and passing on knowledge.

The building was built in 1699 and was once a merchant’s house. It then became the famous Elizabeth Fry women’s refuge. She worked hard in the 1800′s to reform the conditions for women in prison, and you’ll find her face on today’s five pound (£5) notes. The building later became a working mans club. Since then it has been left the owners to fall to pieces and this beautiful beautiful building has been falling apart since. It was squatted in 2009/10 and was opened as a successful social center for 100 months before it got evicted. It is now a home to twelve people and is running as an open to everyone community centre.

We are non profit and run entirely on donations. All events, activities and workshops are free, however we do ask that if you can afford to donate, please do and it will benefit those who cannot.
If you have any ideas, or wish to get involved, feel free to get in contact… and come and pay us a visit.”