Shadow Immigration Minister Stephen Kinnock MP paid a visit to The Wallich’s staff and service users in NPT
Mr Kinnock has been serving as the MP for Aberavon since 2015 and since 2022 he has been Shadow Minister for Immigration.
Homelessness in Neath Port Talbot
The county estimates an average of 220 and 240 people presenting to homelessness services per month.
By the end of this financial year, the council expects to see approximately 2,600 people experiencing homelessness in the local authority.
Elizabeth Crowther, The Wallich Services Manager for Neath Port Talbot, said, “It’s really important that our local representatives and decision-makers meet people we support.
“I’m so proud of everyone who spoke to Stephen about the realities they face and the stressful decisions they have to make every day to get on with their lives.
“When you’re displaced from your home, it feels like your life is put on hold. Our dedicated staff are there to advocate for people when times are tough and help them move forward.”
The Shadow Minister’s visit
On 2 Feb 2024, Mr Kinnock was invited to speak to The Wallich staff and service users.
The Shadow Minister and his colleagues sat down to discuss key topics over a brunch buffet.
We discussed:
- How we support people in a trauma-informed way
- The challenging shortage of affordable housing
- Rules on No Recourse to Public Funds
- Diversionary activities and skills building e.g. cooking classes, art workshops, gardening
- Harm reduction approach to substance use instead of criminal justice
- The reality of the Housing Support Grant (HSG) freeze in funding by Welsh Labour colleagues in the Senedd
My Kinnock said, “It was insightful to hear from some of those experiencing homelessness in Port Talbot about the issues they face, and to hear from staff about the incredible work they are doing to reduce homelessness locally.
“I commend each and every member of the team for their inspiring work.”
The Wallich support: NPT PAWS
The Wallich works closely with the local authority to help people affected.
NPT Prevention and Wellbeing Service (PAWS) has a caseload of more than 300 individuals and families needing housing-related support.
The project also helps people boost their skills to live independently and ensure their tenancies are sustainable.
Taking a solutions-based approach, we offer access to education, training, wellbeing, health and voluntary opportunities.
The project also has a dedicated support worker for the Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller Community.
Ty Raena supported accommodation
The Wallich’s Ty Raena building has 12 fully furnished studio flats accompanied by tailored, trauma informed support from experienced staff.
Residents are offered a range of opportunities to help build their skills, confidence and ability to live independently such as:
- Education
- Training
- Wellbeing services
- Health services
- Voluntary work
They are also encouraged to share their knowledge with fellow residents by leading courses.
If you’re an MP, Member of Senedd or other stakeholder in your local community, and would like to visit one of The Wallich projects get in touch to find out more: communications@thewallich.net