New ABEN service in Burnley

Posted: 25 August 2020 12:08 pm.

A new partnership to tackle homelessness in Burnley

A new partnership seeking to end rough sleeping in Burnley has been formally approved by Burnley Council - click here to see the full press release.

The new project will see Stepping Stone Projects setting up 10 fully furnished homes to provide overnight and temporary accommodation.

We will also provide personalised support to help people address the issues and barriers they face in finding accommodation, sustaining tenancies and living independently.

These 10 homes will be provided by local housing associations, who will then work with the individuals, Stepping Stone Projects and Burnley Council to find permanent homes. The project aims to help 60 clients over the first 12 months.

Stepping Stone Projects Chief Executive Dave Smith said: “We are delighted to extend our existing partnership working in Burnley with the Council and our housing association partners, to now be able to better meet the needs of rough sleepers and to support them to find their own permanent homes and sustain independent living.

“The homes provide people with somewhere safe to sleep. We can then work with each person to help them access the individualised support they need to find a permanent solution.

“We know this model of working is successful as we are providing similar homes and services across Lancashire and Greater Manchester. We aim to provide more of this across the region to tackle rough sleeping.”

Councillor Ivor Emo, Burnley Council's executive member responsible for housing, said: "This is great news and a very welcome step in the right direction in terms of the support being provided to those unfortunate enough to find themselves without a roof over their head.

"Not only will this project provide a bed for the night, it will also provide much wider support and advice networks that can help people get back on track and move forward with their lives."

The issue of homelessness and rough sleeping in Burnley has been highlighted this year, particularly during the COVID-19 crisis. The urgent responses have shown how the needs of rough sleepers can be met.

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