“Offering a lifeline”

Last year, the Supporting People programme supported almost 60,000 people to live as independently as possible in Wales.

As well as providing a lifeline for vulnerable people experiencing a range of issues, from those at risk of homelessness to substance misuse, domestic violence or mental health needs, SP services also help to reduce demand on other statutory services such as health and social care.

One of our schemes Ty Annog, which recently opened in Blaenau Gwent, was made possible due to funding from the scheme.

Ty Annog provides vital accommodation to young people aged between 16 and 24 years old who are at risk of homelessness.

Owned by United Welsh, managed by the Pobl group and delivered in partnership with Blaenau Gwent Council, support is provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week to residents.

Claire Phillips, Partnership Management & Compliance Officer for United Welsh said: “Ty Annog is providing more than a home to vulnerable young people in Blaenau Gwent. It is also offering a lifeline for them to learn and develop new life skills to improve their employment prospects; rebuilding their confidence so they’re ready to live independently in the near future”.

Ty Annog is made up of five self-contained apartments which Celtic Horizons, United Welsh’s wholly owned subsidiary refurbished and reconfigured before the new tenants moved in.

Sophie Thornburrow, a resident from Ty Annog said: “It’s a lovely place to live.”

Throughout September, organisations across Wales are shining a light on the life-changing impact of Supporting People services to show just why we need to protect this funding. Let’s Keep on Supporting People.