New homeless hub opens on Isle of Wight
published on 12 May 2021
A new homelessness centre which offers a place for people to take showers, wash their clothes and have hot refreshments is to be opened by The Salvation Army on the Isle of Wight.
The centre in Newport is being run from a former converted emergency night shelter and is jointly funded by the Isle of Wight Council and the UK government.
Up to 17 people can be accommodated at any point and will run with a ‘housing first’ approach.
This means people are offered accommodation with wrap around support to tackle the complex reasons for their homelessness like mental ill health, fleeing domestic violence, childhood trauma or an addiction.
Matthew Smith, Assistant Regional Manager for Homelessness Services, said: “The Salvation Army has worked with the Isle of Wight local authority and other agencies over many years to support those who face homelessness on the Island.
“We are pleased to be the provider of the innovative new Isle of Wight assessment hub that will work with people to prevent rough sleeping and reduce homelessness.
“We look forward to continuing to meet people’s individual needs so they can realise their potential and break the cycle of homelessness.”
The hub is set to welcome its first guests by the end of May 2021.
