03 October 2024
"If someone is homeless in Saltash, they either end up in a tent or sleeping rough. If Cornwall Housing thinks they're suitable for emergency housing, they may end up in the Travel Lodge just off the A 38, or other unsuitable temporary accommodation. This accommodation is a long way from the town centre, particularly for those needing local support services," explains Jo Couch, Circuit/Church Administrator.
The event, which marked the public launch of the project, was the culmination of nearly nine months of planning and discussions between various church representatives, including ministers from the Baptist and Methodist churches in the South West Peninsula Methodist District.
The organisers are hoping to open their accommodation to help people sleeping rough. The event was the occasion to appeal to the Saltash community for support in securing suitable properties for the project.
"We're launching a public appeal to the people in Saltash to ask whether anyone could donate houses for this project so that we can provide supported housing for people here in Saltash," Jo states. The group hopes to acquire enough space to accommodate seven or eight bedrooms, which could be spread across two properties if necessary.
A key aspect of the project is a partnership with an experienced homeless charity to manage the day-to-day operations of the housing. Jo emphasises, "We do not have the resources to fully support the people experiencing homelessness, many of whom have very complex needs and may need professional expertise. We are looking for a charity to partner with and provide support for the guests.”
The initiative has already garnered support from local officials, with the town mayor and several councillors backing the project. Representatives from St Patrick's, a local organisation that works closely with the church group, were also invited to attend the launch event.
"A lot of the help and agencies who can help people in Cornwall are further down, which is a long way away from their families and they don’t always have any means of transport."
Anita Thompson, Treasurer of Saltash Wesley.The project aims to keep individuals close to their support networks, recognising the importance of community ties in rehabilitation and personal growth. Jo concurs, "Taking away their support system makes it more difficult for them to thrive."
As the project moves forward, the organisers remain hopeful that the Saltash community will rally behind this important cause, helping to create a much-needed safety net for some of the town's most vulnerable residents.