A new council complex for people without homes and facing difficulties in supporting themselves to live independently, has welcomed its first residents.
North East Lincolnshire Council has taken a long-term lease on Swan House – a 29-apartment building in New Haven Terrace, Grimsby. Developed and refurbished privately, the building was empty when the council stepped in.
A welcome alternative to putting those who are eligible for statutory homelessness assistance in bed and breakfast or other alternative and expensive accommodation, clients are offered recently-furnished smart one and two-bed apartments within the secure complex.
Once there, residents have fully fitted kitchens and appliances, such as washing machines, that enable them to live safely and do their own cooking and washing. They are also responsible for their own cleaning and managing their budgets to pay bills.
Importantly, support is also available from the council and its partners to help those who may have issues with money, benefits, or health and wellbeing. Round-the-clock housing management, and external and internal CCTV also ensures security.
The authority’s Leader, Cllr Philip Jackson, who also has responsibility for housing, welcomed the initiative as a blueprint for the future.
“We were very excited at the idea of Swan House when we approved it at Cabinet last year, and now having seen it in person, it brings the idea to life. This facility will have such a positive impact on the lives of the most vulnerable people in our borough.”
Image courtesy of North East Lincolnshire Council
