Partnership creates new homes for those facing homelessness

A partnership between forfutures and Share has created new homes for people facing life on the streets in Chester.

Forfutures, which provides homelessness services for Cheshire West and Chester Council, has teamed up with the charity following Share’s purchase of a property in Chester.

The property has been converted into a home for three people facing homelessness so they can start to build a more positive, sustainable future.

People will live in the property for up to six months and during this time, forfutures and Share will support them to move on to a more permanent home.

Part of the criteria for moving into this home is that people are actively seeking or are currently in education, voluntary work or paid work.

The first customers moved into the property at the end of July.

Two of them had been rough sleeping and engaged with the forfutures team to work towards meeting the criteria.

Another approached the council’s Housing Options team after he lost his job due to the pandemic, experienced a relationship breakdown and had to leave his home.

Staff supported him to get his finances in order and maximise his income.

He said: “The help I received from forfutures was brilliant. They were aware of my problems and they always listened and acted on any concerns I had.

“They provided a reference for me which I firmly believe had a great impact on the landlord’s decision to accept me as a new tenant.

“I’d like to thank them for all their help, which has really helped me get my life back on track.”

Janet Lawton, Strategic Lead for Homelessness from forfutures said: “This is a fantastic example of great partnership working between organisations that share the same values and want to work collaboratively to end homelessness in Cheshire West and Chester.

“Throughout the pandemic we’ve been able to work closely with those facing homelessness and homes like this will support people in taking a huge step towards a new life with a brighter future away from the streets.”

Debra Webb, Chairperson from Share said: “We are delighted to be working in collaboration with forfutures in providing this level of accommodation and support, to empower individuals to move their lives forwards. This is a critical stage in the life of someone who has experienced homelessness and the support needs to be there to make this transition a success. This kind of partnership working allows that to happen and we are excited to see the positive outcome of this.”