Homeless to get more help to move on from shelter

People who have been living in emergency homeless accommodation for a long time are to get more help to move on to permanent housing.

The States of Guernsey said it would work with the charity At Home in Guernsey to support staff at St Julian's House.

Residents at the government-backed house will get help to develop skills and find employment as they attempt to move into private or social accommodation.

The States said the work would "prevent St Julian's House being viewed as a long-term solution" for homeless people.

"We understand it may take some time for residents to be ready to move on to more suitable accommodation," said deputy Steve Williams, President of the Committee for Housing.

"But we are committed to supporting them on a case-by-case basis to help them reach that point."

He added: "Going forward, we want to avoid St Julian's House being viewed as a long-term solution for some individuals.

"Therefore, it is equally important that steps are taken to put the primary focus back on St Julian's House as an emergency accommodation provider for those at risk of homelessness."

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