THE HARD work which goes on behind the scenes to help Rugby’s homeless was on display when a charity held an open day.
Hope4 opened the doors of its Hope Centre headquarters to showcase a recent renovation, including a new clinic and a restaurant, to coincide with World Homelessness Day.
Volunteers and staff at the Newbold Road centre offer basic necessities such as food, shelter, showers, laundry, clothing and sleeping bags to the homeless – particularly rough sleepers.
They also provide advice, guidance and support around issues such as housing, benefits, addictions, healthcare and job searching – offering free internet access, help with online form filling and advice on housing and benefits.
The centre also works closely with the local food bank, mental health organisations and drug and alcohol rehabilitation experts.
Hope4 chair Diana Mansell said: “It has been amazing to see how the building, community and individuals across the town have come together to support the renovation project.
“We want to make the Hope Centre a real hub where homeless people get holistic care including addressing health issues. We are now looking to partner with specialists such as nurse practitioners, podiatrists, chiropractors, dentists and opticians who would base in our new healthcare clinic.”
The charity and its 300-plus volunteers will open the Rugby Winter Shelter from December 1 to March 31, when seven locations around the town will provide meals and a warm place to sleep for homeless people during freezing temperatures.
Figures released last November showed there were 224 homeless people in Rugby borough – the highest of any district in Warwickshire – up by nearly 124 per cent from just over 100 in 2013.
Hope4 still needs funds to keep the centre open. Visit www.hope4.org.uk for details of how to donate or volunteer.
