A new scheme launched this week to give homeless people a better chance of staying settled in West Berkshire.
Local housing specialists across the district have teamed up to help vulnerable people - such as those with mental health problems - to learn how to cook simple meals, open bank accounts, shop for themselves, and become a part of a community.
Eighteen organisations, led by Sovereign Housing Association, West Berkshire Council, and Two Saints Housing Association, have put in place a new ‘life skills’ programme to end the cycle of people becoming homeless because they can’t cope. In addition, the agencies will be sharing more information to tailor services to individual needs.
The resulting Vulnerable People Protocol brings together the skills of each of the partners to provide joined-up support.
Sovereign’s Head of Housing Management Jim Holah said: “It can be daunting for people to suddenly have all these responsibilities when they get their own place, and some just can’t cope. This extra training and support will go a long way to keeping the most vulnerable people in their homes, and off the streets.”
West Berkshire Council’s Executive Member Emma Webster added: “Working in partnership is a real priority for the Council. We feel the protocol will help us to ensure support for vulnerable people to maintain a secure home on their own. This is hugely significant for all of us.”
Jon Cox of Two Saints said: “Two Saints is particularly pleased to be a key partner in the development and delivery of this document and associated training. The protocol will undoubtedly help prevent homelessness and repeat homelessness by identifying vulnerable people at an early stage.
“The key to preventing homelessness is timely information and support. The training for professionals should provide frontline staff with a range of skills, tools and information to this end. The skills for life programme is aimed at helping people develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to successfully settle, or remain settled, in the community’.
It is expected that the one-year pilot will cut evictions, break the cycle of repeat homelessness, and reduce incidents of antisocial behaviour.
Published 7 November 2005
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