Plans for homeless shelter

The DHSS is considering two sites as it plans to open a winter night shelter to combat homelessness.

Health Minister Eddie Teare told Tynwald two buildings were being assessed.

Once a location is decided, it will be handed over to a service provider which will take over the day to day running.

Mr Teare said the plans formed part of a DHSS strategy to tackle the Island’s homelessness problem.

Jason Roberts reports (text, below, from attached audio file):

The Minister told members of Tynwald a shelter was badly needed to help those without permanent homes during the cold winter months.

Director of Social Services Andrew Swithinbank and the department’s director of estate services Mike Harrington are looking at two sites.

The Broadway Baptist Church and Salvation Army will also be giving advice.

Mr Teare added the shelter would eventually be coordinated by the department’s Homelessness Project Development Officer, who will start work in January.