Salvation Army launches Under One Roof

A new monthly support session that aims to tackle the barriers faced by people who are sleeping rough or at risk of homelessness has been officially launched by The Salvation Army’s Employment Plus service in Bristol city.

Under One Roof sees The Salvation Army’s Employment Plus team work with various partner groups across Bristol with the goal of providing housing support and skills to help people experiencing homelessness get back on their feet – all in one place. The partner groups are Department for Work Pensions (DWP), The Welfare Rights and Money Advice Service (WRAMAS), Shelter, St Mungo’s, Bristol Drugs Project, and Bristol City Council Rents.

Every month, experts based at The Salvation Army’s Bristol Citadel provide advice to people on education, training and employment and welfare and benefits. Advice on housing and support for drug and alcohol addiction is also available. The sessions run on the first Wednesday of each month from 1pm – 4pm.

Salvation Army Employment Development Co-ordinator, Lee Durbin said: “People experiencing homelessness or rough sleeping are amongst the most vulnerable in our society and the furthest away from support services, stable accommodation, work, and benefits.

“We are delighted that Under One Roof has launched and look forward to working with our partners in this. It’s a one stop shop with a range of support to empower people to unlock their potential and get back on their feet.”

Gill Knight, Partnership Manager (DWP) said: “It’s been great to see this project finally launch and the support from the delivery partners has been superb. Each partner brings their own skills to the table and enables wraparound support for people in need.

“The Salvation Army in particular has been a wonderful support and is very kindly hosting each monthly session of Under One Roof, which we all appreciate.”

No appointment is needed to attend an Under One Roof session. Bristol Citadel is located at 6 Ashley Road, BS6 5RW.