We have been awarded more than £600k to combat homelessness in Middlesbrough
Tuesday 14 May 2024
We have been awarded £628,000 through the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities (DLUHC) and Homes England’s Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme.
The Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme (SHAP) was announced as part of the Government’s 2022 strategy to end rough sleeping across the country and is aimed at increasing the supply of good quality, specialist supported accommodation and the delivery of housing-led approaches.
The funding, resulting from a joint bid with Middlesbrough Council, is earmarked for the acquisition and refurbishment of eight homes in Middlesbrough. These homes will provide crucial housing and holistic support for individuals sleeping rough or at risk of sleeping rough.
The funding also includes revenue provision for Beyond Housing to provide holistic support to the residents of the homes. The approach builds on the foundation of similar successful projects in Redcar and Scarborough which received funding in 2021. Residents will benefit from support in budgeting, living skills, health and wellbeing, and will be provided with access to training and employment opportunities.
Sarah Hall, Assistant Director of Housing at Beyond Housing, said: “This funding represents a significant opportunity to support some of those at risk of homelessness in Middlesbrough. By combining safe, stable housing with comprehensive support services, we are not just offering a temporary solution but are investing in the future of those at risk.
“Our collaboration with Middlesbrough Council and the dedication of our teams ensure that we can make a real difference in the lives of our residents, empowering them towards independence and self-sufficiency.”
Middlesbrough Council welcomes the opportunity to work alongside Beyond Housing on this crucial issue.
Chris Cooke, Elected Mayor of Middlesbrough, said: “Homelessness is a key challenge in Middlesbrough, and we absolutely need to ensure we do more to make sure we help vulnerable residents.
“This is an opportunity to be innovative in our approach to addressing homelessness and supporting those who are rough sleeping.
“Our staff will work to enhance the support provided by Beyond Housing, creating a strong multi-agency team around these individuals.
“Our focus will be on promoting people’s independence, strengths and resilience as they move into a new phase in their lives.”
