With new and improved solutions proposed by Flintshire County Council for emergency accommodation, Glanrafon has fulfilled its expectations and more.
The Glanrafon facility in Deeside, consisting of 23 single occupancy cabins and 3 rooms, was only supposed to be a temporary emergency shelter for people sleeping rough in Flintshire. But because of the need in the area and the COVID pandemic, The Wallich has worked in Queensferry for more than six years.
In partnership with Flintshire County Council, The Wallich has provided 2,228 nights of safe shelter at Glanrafon for 546 people who were homeless in Flintshire.
Like the local gentleman who found himself needing help after struggling with the death of a close family member. He turned to drugs to cope and accrued uncontrollable gambling debts. Once given shelter at Glanrafon, The Wallich staff were able to support him with counselling sessions for bereavement and gambling, debt repayment plans and training courses. Over three years, he started university, got a part time job, managed his money and built savings. When he moved out to his own property, he was able to maintain renting and was excited to live independently.
“We’d like to say thank you to all the staff, donors and volunteers who made Glanrafon possible over the last six years, tackling homelessness together.”
“There have been countless lives positively supported and valuable lessons for supporting people through the trauma of homelessness in the area in the future. Although the cabins will no longer be there, we know the council has new provisions in place for anyone else at risk of losing their home.”
“Glanrafon has played a vital role in supporting people experiencing homelessness across Flintshire over the past six years.
“Originally established as a temporary emergency response, the project went on to provide stability, safety, and access to wider support services for hundreds of people across the county.
“We are proud to have worked in partnership with The Wallich to help people move forward from crisis situations and into more secure futures.”
“The positive outcomes achieved through Glanrafon demonstrate the importance of compassionate, person-centred support and strong partnership working across the county.
“As planning permission for the site is due to expire, the council and partners have been working proactively to ensure alternative accommodation options are available as part of wider diversification plans for homelessness and temporary housing provision in Flintshire. These new arrangements aim to provide a broader range of support and accommodation solutions that better meet the varying needs of individuals and families facing homelessness.
“We remain committed to ensuring that anyone facing homelessness in Flintshire can access the right help and support at the earliest opportunity.”
Although the cabins in Queensferry have served their purpose and will be removed, Flintshire County Council will continue to provide emergency accommodation for people who need it. Those who need help with homelessness can get in touch with Flintshire Council’s Homeless Team by calling 01352 703777.