Stoke-on-Trent City Council is reviewing how it supports people sleeping rough after a six-month night shelter pilot in Burslem helped 96 people.
The review forms part of the Government's national drive to get people off the streets by Christmas. The council is considering alternative locations and different models of accommodation and support.
Burslem pilot to end this month
The Burslem night shelter pilot is due to finish in September. The council says it demonstrated the value of providing a safe place where people could engage with support services.
However, its dormitory-style layout and the requirement for residents to leave during the day are not considered the best model for longer-term provision.
Future options will look at accommodation that enables more consistent support while considering the effect on local communities and businesses. The review will also examine how services can be distributed appropriately across the city.
Partners to help shape future support
The council will work with Swan Bank Church and Adullam, which ran the pilot, alongside the council's Rough Sleeper Team and voluntary-sector organisation VAST.
Discussions will continue with Swan Bank Church about whether the existing shelter could provide emergency accommodation during periods of extreme weather.
The Rough Sleeper Team will continue working directly with people sleeping rough to help them access accommodation and other services where appropriate.
How to report a concern
Anyone concerned about someone sleeping rough can make a report through StreetLink.
Concerns can also be reported to Stoke-on-Trent City Council on 0800 970 2304.
