Women's housing project offers specialist help

A new housing scheme for vulnerable women has officially opened in Dorset.

The Haven was bought and refurbished by Dorset Council to provide housing for six women deemed at risk of rough sleeping.

The scheme has 24-hour onsite support and provides a home free from harm and danger.

A cherry tree was planted and a plaque unveiled on Tuesday by housing councillor Gill Taylor.

She said: "I am so proud to officially open the first scheme of its kind in the area.

"This scheme will provide vulnerable women a platform to rebuild their lives and thrive, giving them stability so they can find the strength, confidence and ability to grow and make strides towards making a happy and independent life for themselves."

The project has been largely funded by the government's Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme (SHAP) via Homes England.

A second grant from Homes England has funded the support service for the next three years, provided by homelessness charity Julian House.

Julian House chief executive Helen Bedser said: "We are excited to grow our services within Dorset, ensuring that women in the community have specialist support in a secure, stable home where they can rebuild their lives and recover from the trauma of homelessness."

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