Stoke-on-Trent reviews rough sleeping support to meet government target by Christmas
Stoke-on-Trent reviews rough sleeping support to meet government target by Christmas
Stoke-on-Trent City Council is assessing its approach to rough sleeping support as part of the Government’s initiative to ensure everyone has appropriate accommodation by Christmas.
The council is exploring various options, including alternative locations and models of accommodation and support services.
A recent pilot night shelter in Burslem, which concludes this month, highlighted the benefits of providing a safe place for vulnerable individuals to engage with support services.
The shelter supported 96 people over six months.
Though the Burslem night shelter showed positive outcomes, the dormitory-style setting and its day-time closure were deemed unsuitable for long-term provisions.
The council aims to develop more sustainable models that offer ongoing assistance to individuals while considering community and business impacts.
Collaborations with Swan Bank Church, Adullam, the Rough Sleeper Team, and partners like VAST will continue as new strategies are formed.
Councillor Jane Ashworth, Stoke-on-Trent City Council leader, emphasised the importance of appropriate support: "The Burslem night shelter has shown what we can do by simply providing a bed and a safe space to engage with support agencies and we will take the learning from that project into new schemes we will develop to meet the Government’s target of getting everyone off the streets of Stoke-on-Trent."
Recognising the complexity faced by those experiencing entrenched rough sleeping, the council seeks solutions that extend beyond just providing accommodation, focusing on comprehensive support.
Meanwhile, direct engagement through the Rough Sleeper Team will persist, offering help to access accommodation and services.
Ashworth mentioned ongoing discussions with Swan Bank Church regarding the use of the existing shelter for emergencies during extreme weather.
Efforts to locate suitable locations and address local concerns about anti-social behaviour continue.