The hostel will provide round the clock accommodation, support and care to the homeless.

The direct access hostel in Leamington Spa is owned by the Council and is run by a dedicated team of 15 staff. It was opened on 18 September and now provides accommodation for around 22 people, 24 hours a day all the year round. It is a major element of the Council’s rough sleeping initiative which aims to ensure that nobody needs to be street homeless.

William Wallsgrove House contains two large dormitory rooms and seven individual rooms all having single beds which will provide a home to individuals who present directly at the hostel or who are referred to the Council through partner agencies including P3, the Police and Cyrenians. Once settled into the hostel they will be further assessed and where possible housed in one of the council’s supported housing facilities, or if appropriate referred to other supported housing facilities in the district.

The hostel can be accessed directly by rough sleepers without the need to come to or contact the Council in advance. Unlike the night shelters, those using the hostel will be encouraged to stay during the day and access on-site support, care and counselling from specialist agencies and partners.  

Warwick District Council’s Head of Housing Services, Lisa Barker commented: “We understand that the lives of rough sleepers can be complex and multi-faceted. The specialist care and support we are able to provide to individuals who seek refuge at William Wallsgrove House, will be a significant step in helping them address their problems in a safe and secure environment, so that when they are ready they are able to move on to more permanent accommodation that is suitable to their needs. We cater for all rough sleepers, even their pets as the hostel has a room which is suitable for dogs.”

Warwick District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Housing Services, Councillor Peter Phillips commented: “I am very pleased that thanks to our successful bid to central government, support from Warwickshire County Council and the tireless work of the Council’s Housing Services and Assets teams we have been able to open this valuable facility before the winter. The new hostel will assist us in our aim to reduce the number of people living rough on our streets and with the specialist support of our team give these vulnerable people the support and skills they need to live independently.” 

Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health, Councillor Les Caborn said: “The County Council is committed to tackling homelessness in partnership with the District Council. Rough sleeping presents challenges across the county and we are happy to work to together to find joint solutions.”