‘Everyone In’ and donation scheme to tackle rough sleeping
All verified rough sleepers in the county are being offered accommodation by Shropshire Council as it is continues the ‘Everyone In’ scheme run throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
Those who accept this receive stability and security, while officers can also engage with and provide further support to help find a range of find suitable, permanent accommodation away from street homelessness.
However, there are some individuals, virtually all in Shrewsbury, who chose to decline this offer.
If someone does refuse this offer the council, in partnership with homeless charity The Shrewsbury Ark and other local agencies, continues to work with the street homeless, getting to know them and seeking to support them to feel ready to accept accommodation options.
Shrewsbury also has a new ‘cashless giving’ system for anyone who wants to help the homeless with a bank card donation rather than giving loose change.
This uses a special card machine to make donations directly to The Shrewsbury Ark in a new ‘alternative giving’ shop window of The UGC in Castle Street in the town centre (formerly the Multiyork furniture shop). Secure cash donation boxes for the scheme are also available at Shrewsbury Railway Station, The Square and Frankwell Footbridge.
The new card donation machine in Castle Street, Shrewsbury
Donations can also be made direct to The Shrewsbury Ark online – Shrewsbury Christian Centre Association – Donate now (cafonline.org)
This is a partnership between Shrewsbury BID and The Shrewsbury Ark, to help people off the streets and access support services so they can rebuild their lives.
Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult Social Care, public health and assets, said:-
“As people are often worried about donating cash to people who are sleeping rough, the donation scheme helps them to know that their donation will be put to the best use, and go straight to supporting rough sleepers with deposits and rent in advance; as well as providing a range of support such as food and washing facilities, mental and physical health advice, rehabilitation and help finding housing and work.”
The new card donation machine in Castle Street, Shrewsbury
The council and our partners are always seeking the help of the public to be eyes on the ground to help spot rough sleepers. If you see someone sleeping rough, please help by reporting this:-
Report via Streetlink
- On their website – https://www.streetlink.org.uk/#
- By phone: 0300 500 0914
Report via Shropshire Council
- By phone: 0345 678 9005
- Email: housingoptions@shropshire.gov.uk
Report via The Shrewsbury Ark
- By phone: 01743 363305
If you think the person is in immediate danger or needs urgent care, please call 999.
