Politics & Council · Swindon
Swindon expands emergency support for rough sleepers with ten new beds
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Swindon Borough Council has increased emergency provision for those sleeping rough, adding ten nightly beds at The Haven Day Centre as part of a wider outreach initiative.
Swindon Borough Council has expanded its emergency accommodation for rough sleepers by securing ten additional bed spaces available each night at The Haven Day Centre. The move forms part of a broader, year-round strategy aimed at helping vulnerable individuals transition from the streets into more permanent housing solutions.
The initiative, supported by a £405,000 grant from the Government’s Routes Off The Street scheme, bolsters the work already carried out by the council’s Homelessness Prevention and Rough Sleeper teams. These teams operate throughout the town to build relationships with rough sleepers, offering access to healthcare, specialist services and financial support alongside accommodation.
Councillor Matty Courtliff, the council’s cabinet member for housing and property, emphasised the complexity of the circumstances that lead to homelessness. He stated that the local authority remains committed to providing support that is both compassionate and practical, noting that preventing homelessness before it reaches a crisis point remains a primary objective.
The Haven Day Centre serves as a key local hub for those in need, offering essential facilities including meals, hot drinks, laundry, and shower access. It also provides a space for individuals to seek guidance and advice from support workers.
The council confirmed that it currently seeks to offer accommodation to every rough sleeper identified within the borough. Their outreach team continues to monitor areas of the town and acts on reports from both partner agencies and members of the public.
How to access support
The council is urging anyone who is currently homeless, at risk of losing their home, or concerned about a person sleeping rough to make contact as soon as possible.
Telephone: Residents can contact the Homelessness Prevention Team on 01793 445500.
In person: The team is based at Beckhampton Street, SN1 2JH, and is available for assistance without an appointment.
Reporting: Concerns regarding people sleeping rough can be logged via the StreetLink website or mobile app.
Source: Swindon Advertiser - Politics · View original