A housing association in Sheffield has been providing accommodation for homeless people and those fleeing abuse, violence or exploitation.<\/p>\n
Choice Housing Trust gives people in need supported housing around the city and provides each resident with a regular visiting support worker.<\/p>\n
Robert Mellors, founder of Choice Housing Trust, was homeless himself in the 1990s and now uses his knowledge to help others. Mr Mellors said: “We provide not just a roof over their heads, but also ongoing support to help them address the issues that may have lead to them becoming homeless.<\/p>\n
“This lays the foundation stones for them being able to move on into independent accommodation when they are ready for this transition and we help with this too.”<\/p>\n
Residents claim Housing Benefit to cover rent and pay a small amount towards heating and electricity bills. However, the cost of providing support is not covered by Housing Benefit, and residents do not receive any funding from the government or charities. Accordingly, Choice Housing Trust relies on public donations and trading activities to pay Support Workers.<\/p>\n