A HOMELESSNESS hostel in Leamington has doubled its capacity to provide more support.
Williams Wallsgrove House will now offer beds for 22 people with this increasing to 30 during severe weather conditions after Warwick District Council’s planning committee approved the proposals.
The accommodation has been providing a temporary home for around 11 people since it opened in 2018 and the council says it is a major element of its rough sleeping initiative which aims to ensure nobody needs to be street homeless.
Unlike night shelters, those using the hostel are encouraged to stay during the day and access on-site support and counselling from specialist agencies and partners including P3, Warwickshire Police, Cyrenians, Warwickshire County Council and NHS physical and mental health nurses.
In the past 18 months more than 200 people have used the service and many have gone on to find permanent accommodation, reconnected with friends and family or have undergone rehabilitation programmes.
Council housing spokesperson Jan Matecki said: “I am very pleased with the decision which will enable us to continue with the specialist support we are able to provide to people who seek refuge at William Wallsgrove House.
“The guests we help come from all walks of life and the reasons why they have fallen on hard times is complex.
“Nevertheless, what is clear to everyone involved with our work is that the safe and secure environment created by our amazing team of support officers and partner agencies really does have a significant impact in helping these people to turn their lives around.
“I would also like to pay tribute to the council’s housing team for their ongoing commitment to securing the future of our hostel.”
