New homeless trial puts Housing First

Wednesday, 10 October 2018 16:00

In advance of colder winter weather, Bradford Council is trialing a new system which it says puts housing at the centre of support for some of the city’s most vulnerable homeless people.

The new Housing First Service aims to assist rough sleepers and people who struggle with addiction and mental health issues by helping them directly into homes without the need to pass through hostels or other forms of supported housing.

The council claims the approach, originally developed in Los Angeles, is recognised as an effective method to supporting some of the most entrenched homeless people.

Coun Alex Ross-Shaw, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “Helping homeless people is an important priority for the Council.

“We can’t afford to wait for the government to roll out more Housing First pilots while homelessness is such an issue across the country so we’ve decided to trial it here in Bradford.

“We are finding homes for people in the trial and we’ll be providing intensive support so they can build a new life for themselves.”

Jon Royle, CEO of the Bridge Project, said: “Housing First provides vital support to some of the most vulnerable members of our community, providing them with a secure home and help in maintaining their tenancy. Bridge is delighted and proud to be part of this important new initiative.”

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