Council hostel extends support for homeless people

Following recent approval from Warwick District Council’s Planning Committee, the Council’s direct access hostel for the homeless in Leamington Spa, is able to extend its provision of round the clock accommodation and support to the most vulnerable in our society.

Opened in 2018 William Wallsgrove House has been providing a temporary home for around 11 people and is a major element of the Council’s rough sleeping initiative which aims to ensure that nobody needs to be street homeless. Unlike the 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.

Now that permission has been granted the Council can utilize the full capacity of the building and offer beds for 22 guests with this increasing to 30 during severe weather conditions. 

Alongside the planning application is a robust management plan for the hostel detailing the hostel rules, use and occupation agreement and strict no drugs and alcohol policy.

In the past eighteen months more than 200 rough sleepers have been helped by the Council’s service at William Wallsgrove House and many of these people have found permanent accommodation, reconnected with friends and family or have undergone rehabilitation programmes.

Warwick District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Housing Services, Councillor Jan Matecki commented;

“I am very pleased with this 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.”