Cirencester Signpost has welcomed the new emergency accommodation for homeless people in the Cotswolds

Cotswold District Council has refurbished The Croft, a seven-bedroom property in Cirencester to accommodate those in need before assisting them into settled accommodation.

Invited guests, including those working for Cirencester Signpost, were able to tour the building, which includes two large bathrooms, a communal lounge and kitchen, and washing facilities in each bedroom.

There is also an office for advisors to help meet the support needs of the temporary residents and assist them in moving into settled accommodation.

Graham Harris, chairman of Cirencester Signpost said: "The opening of the Croft represents good news for vulnerable people to get their lives back on track.

"Too often in the past local people, many of whom are Cirencester born and bred, have had to move to places as far away as Bristol, where they have no support network in place and their chances of getting back on their feet is greatly diminished.

"Our experience at Cirencester Signpost has shown us that getting accommodation is often just the first step for our street friends.

"Equally important is access to services that helps to address issues that can limit their quality of life.

"We are hopeful that the Croft will be a milestone in transforming lives and we look forward to working together to make this happen."

Councillors approved an expenditure of £35,000 to refurbish the council owned property at a council meeting in December.

Cotswold District Council Cllr Lisa Spivey for housing and homelessness, added: “Sadly, homelessness is a growing problem, both locally and nationally, and the refurbishment of The Croft to accommodate those in need is a very welcome development.

"This represents a significant increase in the availability of suitable emergency accommodation within the district, and means that Cotswold District Council officers will have to rent fewer expensive motel rooms outside the district to meet this need.

“I am also very pleased that having a base at The Croft will enable its temporary residents to maintain local connections and benefit from excellent access to a range of support networks.

"It’s also great that there are cooking facilities and a communal living room – having places to prepare meals and socialise should encourage residents to retain their independence and give them confidence to interact with others.”