‘Beautifully redesigned’ and ‘feels like Xmas has come early’ were a few of the plaudits lauded on a newly refurbished service for vulnerable young people that threw open its doors this month.
The ‘open house was organised to give local residents and supporting agencies the opportunity to view the new service and meet some of the young residents, who would be living there. The service has been successfully running for over 10 years at the same address.
Delivered in partnership with Caerphilly County Borough Council, the property is owned and has been developed by Pobl, with the support service provided by Llamau.
The service supports young people aged between 16 and 21 who are affected by homelessness and breakdowns in their family relationships by enabling them to have their own space, with staff on-hand to encourage and help them to develop their independence in a safe and comfortable environment in the heart of their community.
Neil Taylor, Senior Project Manager said “It’s fantastic to hear the positive comments about the redesigned service and is particularly rewarding to hear first-hand how delighted the residents are with their newly refurbished homes.
Living in suitable, safe accommodation will help to provide the stable foundation on which the young residents can move forward with the next phase of their lives”.
Throughout the construction and design stages, the residents valued the opportunity to choose many aspects of the design ranging from their kitchen worktops, floors, tiles, shower pods, as well as the general decoration of their newly refurbished home.
The property has been completely reconfigured so that each apartment now has its own bathroom, kitchen and living area. There is a communal lounge area and kitchen, where a range of ‘life skills’ classes will be held and a new ground floor apartment has been created to provide disabled access.
Cllr Robin Woodyatt, Cabinet Member for Social Services said, “This refurbishment has certainly been hailed as a success. Each apartment has been developed to a very high standard and turned into an inviting space for young people to stay, offering a safe and comfortable environment. It is great to hear existing residents giving their views on the refurbishment to make sure it meets the requirements of the young people who will be staying there.
He continues, “Places like this give young adults the start they deserve when becoming independent and needing a place to stay, preparing them for their future.”
Sam Lewis, Llamau Head of Support Services (Gwent & Cwm Taf) cited the partnership working with Caerphilly County Borough Council and Pobl as key to “the improvement in the standard of accommodation available for the young people of Caerphilly who find themselves facing homelessness, and in need of some support. Homelessness is a really frightening experience, and this project helps ensure young people don’t have to face this alone, helping them to succeed in their own homes and communities in future”.
Article created: 20th November 2016
