THE first steps have been taken in introducing a new “Housing First” scheme in Gwynedd by appointing the homelessness and rough sleeping charity, The Wallich, to lead it. 

Housing First focuses on moving people experiencing homelessness immediately into independent and permanent housing, and then providing additional support and services as needed. 

Almost 1,000 people presented as homeless in Gwynedd during 2023-24, with an increasing number with complex needs such as mental health problems, substance abuse, and a history of offending.

READ MORE:

Walkers rescued after becoming stuck on a ledge in Gwynedd

Plans unveiled to increase North Wales train services by 50 per cent

The principle behind the service is that people experiencing homelessness with chronic housing and support needs need to be offered a “house first”, rather than being placed in emergency accommodation, which is often deemed unsuitable for their needs, then temporary accommodation, before moving to a permanent home.

Once they have a safe and long-term home, caseworkers can then offer intensive support based on the individual’s specific needs.  

The Wallich, is the largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity in Wales, and will lead the service, which is funded by Gwynedd Council through Welsh Government's Housing Support Grant.

This will provide support from experienced case workers to more than 20 individuals throughout the county. 

Cllr Craig ab Iago, Gwynedd Council’s housing and property cabinet member, said: “The Housing First model uses the home as a starting off point, rather than the end goal.

“And (it) allows people experiencing homelessness to receive support that is suitable for their own particular needs in a safe and stable living space. 

“I welcome this new initiative and look forward to the council partnering with The Wallich to provide the best opportunities for people experiencing homelessness in Gwynedd to rebuild their lives.

“There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to tackling homelessness, with each case and story being so unique – this method is part of a multipronged strategy by Cyngor Gwynedd to try to prevent, defeat and end homelessness in the county.”

Sophie Haworth-Booth, strategic operational lead for The Wallich, said: “The Wallich opened Wales’s first Housing First scheme more than 10 years ago – and it works.

“We’re incredibly excited that our team can now share their expertise to support people with a housing need in Gwynedd.

“A roof over someone’s head is the first step out of homelessness - it’s the crucial wraparound support which also keeps people in their home for the long-term.

“We cannot wait to see the positive impact the new service will have on the local community. 

“The new Gwynedd Housing First service will also bring five new jobs to the area.

“If you have experience in housing or homelessness and feel determined to support people into a bright future, have a look at our careers and apply.”

The Housing First service is a specialist service available by referral only.

If you are homeless, or worried about someone sleeping rough, contact Gwynedd Council’s homelessness service on 01766 771000 or digartef@gwynedd.llyw.cymru.