Charity offered land for homelessness project

A charity project to build 24 homes for those experiencing homelessness in Guernsey has received two offers of land, its leaders have said.

Caritas said it had received more than £7,000 in donations from individuals and businesses, as well as the two offers of land to build the modular accommodation.

Meanwhile, it said there had been offers of support from the construction industry, including architects and builders, either free or costed.

The charity said it estimated 1,000 people - 1.8% of the population - were living without secure housing.

The charity said the homes would be built in two phases and people could stay for up to two years.

Chairman Graham Merfield said he was "overwhelmed and really thankful" for the support Caritas had received since launching the project in September.

"We've had offers of two properties and we are currently evaluating the potential for planning on one of those," he told BBC Radio Guernsey.

"In parallel we have had very positive dialogue with the States.

"We've identified five potential properties they own which we could use and we've been told that our project will be put on the political agenda in the coming weeks."

Mr Merfield said he remained "very optimistic we're going to find a solution" and hoped the project could move forward another step next year.

"The modular homes would be a complete home with sitting area, bathroom, bedroom, kitchen to house one person," he added.

"They're very sleek, very modern and come complete ready to use.

"As important as building the homes and putting a roof over peoples heads is, the support we aim to provide for people to help them get back on their feet and into the community is as important."

Caritas said it had also teamed up with The Big Skipton Sleep Out, which takes place on 24 January, in which islanders sleep outdoors for one night in a bid to raise awareness and funds.

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