A new temporary supported housing unit has opened in Bridgend as part of BCBC’s drive to reduce the number of homeless people placed in bed and breakfast accommodation.
Cornerstone House, in Coity Road, Bridgend, provides six flats and is designed to give temporary accommodation which also encourages independent living.
The council has developed Cornerstone House in partnership with United Welsh Housing Association, and today (28 June) Cabinet members have agreed it should be managed by The Wallich who will provide the support services to those using the new accommodation.
Cornerstone House is aimed at reducing ‘repeat homelessness’ in the future and is regarded as a better, more efficient and supportive alternative to B&B.
It forms part of the council’s new strategy for tackling the issue of homelessness in the borough, against a backdrop of increasing demand for social housing.
BCBC is taking a proactive homelessness prevention approach to the issue by helping residents to find other solutions to their housing problems and launching a new website bridgendhousing.co.uk which explains what BCBC can do to help and what other options are available locally to those in housing need.
Deputy Leader Councillor David Sage, said: “Homelessness is a serious social issue and one which we as a responsible and caring council are determined to address. One can only imagine how heartbreaking it must be to lose the roof over your head so we want to offer positive and efficient ways to both prevent and deal with this.
“We recognise the need to develop sustainable housing solutions for those who are homeless or in need of affordable housing and to support vulnerable adults to live independently in their communities, promoting choice, empowerment, dignity and respect.
“Cornerstone House is a significant part of our new strategy and this will be complemented by the next 16 units we will open in Bridgend next year.”
