Cllr Paul Fleming (left), chairperson of the Derry Policing and Community Safety Partnership, pictured at the handing over of the dedicated vehicle to First Housing Aid and Support Services.
The group providing support to people sleeping rough on the streets of Derry have been provided with a dedicated vehicle to aid its night time support service.
Through financial assistance provided by the Derry Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), First Housing Aid and Support Services has been able to purchase a dedicated vehicle to enhance their provision especially through the night support service.
The objective of the programme is to avoid people sleeping rough on the streets where they and the local community are very vulnerable.
The provision of the dedicated vehicle is helping to avoid rough sleeping and maintaining the safety and security for vulnerable individuals suffering from addictions.
The First Housing Night Outreach Service patrols in and around known hotspots and can now provide a transportation service to those service users who are intoxicated, have mobility issues or are unable to manage getting home safely themselves.
The Housing Executive and Supporting People core fund this service. It forms part of a continuum of services delivered under The Homelessness Strategy providing a range of services that enhances a response to rough sleeping and street drinking in the Derry area.
Cllr Paul Fleming, chairperson of the Derry PCSP stated the “extremely important” programme provided an “essential service” to some of Derry’s most vulnerable citizens.
He added: “The support provided through the PCSP has enabled First Housing Aid to continue to enhance their night support service to street drinkers and those sleeping rough in and around the city centre.
“I would particularly like to thank all the staff at First Housing Aid for the great work they carry out, especially in our city centre and wish them every success as they continue to work with some of the most vulnerable in our community.”
Phil Mahon, chairperson of First Housing Aid added said through CSP support they were able to continue to deliver “this important service” in and around our city centre.
He concluded: “The provision of a dedicated vehicle has sustained our engagement with street drinkers and individuals sleeping rough and has helped enhance their safety and protection.”
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