Renfrewshire homelessness project supports 27 people

The New Harbour Project has helped 27 people <i>(Image: Newsquest)</i>
The New Harbour Project has helped 27 people (Image: Newsquest)
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An initiative that provides crucial housing support to dozens of people in Renfrewshire at risk of homelessness has shown "particularly encouraging" results since its launch.

The New Harbour Project – which is said to focus on individuals who have complex needs linked to alcohol use – helps a total of 20 men and seven women.

"Sustaining settled housing" remains a key priority for the programme that started earlier this year and offers tailored assistance on topics such as budgeting, benefits, and tenancy-related matters.



That's according to a service update report that is set to be discussed by elected members at Renfrewshire Council's communities and housing policy board on Tuesday.

The paper, which has been prepared by Gordon McNeil, director of environment, housing, and infrastructure, provided further information on the promising progress that has been seen so far.

It explained: "Our New Harbour Project continues to provide housing support to individuals at risk of homelessness – with a particular focus on those experiencing complex needs associated with alcohol use.

"The initiative now supports 27 service users (20 men and seven women), with referrals coming from homeless services, alcohol drugs and recovery services, and criminal justice social work.

"Established partnerships with Kairos Women's Group, Circle, RCA Trust, and Street Connect continue to strengthen the provision of specialist support and improved access to services.

"Sustaining settled housing continues to be a key priority for the New Harbour Project, with tailored support provided around budgeting, benefits, and tenancy-related matters.

"Close collaboration with local housing teams and the repairs service has enabled accommodation issues to be resolved promptly, supporting tenancy sustainment.

"Performance during the first four months of the New Harbour project has been particularly encouraging, with client numbers doubling and no tenancy breakdowns recorded among service users."

The New Harbour Project, which has been funded by Renfrewshire Council and the Alcohol and Drug Partnership, was created to build on the work of the My Life Ahead initiative.

A review of the programme's impact is expected to be carried out early next year.

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