Number of rough sleepers using service ‘a surprise’

THE numbers of rough sleepers taking advantage of a new service which helps them get off the streets has taken organisers by surprise.

The pilot project in Bridgend which gives direct access to those in need of a bed for the night started in November 2017 after the local authority and its partners realised there was a lack of provision during wet weather.

Based in two rooms at The Kerrigan Project in Waterton, the scheme now provides nine beds but it expanded during the recent spell of snow and cold weather to accommodate up to 16 people.

Explaining the importance of the new service, a council report states: “Although a number of other areas respond only to cold weather and a fall in temperature to provide floor space, a view was taken in early autumn that wet conditions can be just as, or even more, detrimental and that the temperature alone was not a relevant measure to determine service provision.”

As well as a bed, rough sleepers are offered “intensive support” which has seen 14 people out of 53 accessing the service from November to February being housed.

Hailing the pilot as a “real success” Bridgend council housing manager Lynne Berry told councillors at a recent meeting: “The numbers of people using it has been a sur- prise to us – it has been consistently used.

“One of the really positive aspects of it is the intensive floating support that has made a difference to people coming in and accessing the service.”

The service is run by housing and care provider Gwalia (part of the Pobl Group) with breakfast being provided by homeless charity The Wallich. Those staying overnight leave at 8am.

Lorraine Griffiths, area manager for Pobl, said: “The numbers of people we have supported going through has been a surprise to us as well.

“We are still surprised at the numbers presenting to us every day. We had up to 10 at the weekend and seven last night.

“Since November, 75 individuals have come through the provision – it isn’t just about providing a bed which is important but understanding them and what their needs are.”

Of the 53 people accessing the service up to February, 20 had substance misuse issues, 23 suffered from mental health issues, 17 were street homeless or sofa surfing, 16 were prison leavers, seven had debt issues and nine had domestic violence issues.

The service is for those aged 18 and over, and while priority is given to those with a local connection the criteria is relaxed if there is space.

The service was discussed during a subject overview and scrutiny meeting at Bridgend County Borough Council on April 19.