Newly refurbished rough sleeper accommodation opens in Shrewsbury

A newly refurbished accommodation has officially re-opened at 70 Castle Foregate in Shrewsbury after a closure for essential works, providing vital support for individuals experiencing rough sleeping and homelessness.  

This 10-bed facility offers immediate shelter and tailored services to help residents rebuild their lives.  

A bedroom at 70 Castle Foregate.

The initiative forms part of Shropshire Council’s commitment to reducing homelessness and ensuring safe, secure housing for those most in need. It is also part of a wider programme to improve temporary accommodation for homeless people – enhancing support to help individuals move into permanent housing while reducing reliance on costly hotel provision and ensuring safe, secure housing for those most in need. 

 The facility will offer:

•  Access to safe accommodation. 
• On-site support services.
• Pathways to long-term housing solutions. 

 One resident described the impact as:

“It’s a life-changing journey for the right person, giving them the chance to leave rough sleeping behind and move forwards.”

 Hayley Thomas Brown, Shropshire Council’s rough sleeper co-ordinator, said: 

“This re-opening marks a significant step forward in our efforts to tackle homelessness. By providing a safe space and tailored support, we aim to give people the stability they need to rebuild their lives.” 

 A collaborative approach 

 The initiative combines housing provision, drug and alcohol recovery support, and mental health services through partnerships with RESET, Drug and Alcohol Services (With You), The Shrewsbury Ark, Willowdene, Intuitive Thinking Skills and the Rough Sleeper Mental Health Team.

This collaborative model ensures holistic, person-centred care, addressing not only immediate housing needs but also underlying issues such as substance misuse, mental health conditions, and social isolation. 

Funding and support 

 Shropshire Council’s approach is underpinned by two key funding streams: 

• Rough Sleeper Initiative (RSI): Supports outreach, accommodation pathways, and personalised interventions to help individuals transition off the streets. 
• Rough Sleeping Prevention and Recovery Grant (RSPARG): Part of the national Drug and Alcohol Treatment, Recovery and Improvement Grant, funding targeted substance misuse treatment for people experiencing or at risk of rough sleeping. 

 Together, these grants enable a comprehensive model that promotes recovery, stability, and long-term independence. 

Councillor James Owen, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for housing and leisure, said: 

 “The reopening of 70 Castle Foregate is a fantastic example of how we can make a real difference in our residents’ lives. This scheme provides more than just a roof over someone’s head—it creates  pathways to recovery, stability, and independence.

“By working together with our partners, we’re tackling the root causes of homelessness and giving people the chance to move forward with hope and dignity. I’m proud to see Shropshire leading the way in delivering innovative, compassionate solutions that truly change lives for the most vulnerable.”