Social Action
Steve chairs the Homeless Action Group in Wisbech which he set up in response to a plea for help from church leaders. The Homeless Action Group involves the local Police, Citizen's Advice Bureau, Volunteer Centre, Town and District Council, The Ferry Project, The Rosmini Centre, and Church Leaders.
Local churches reported a growing problem of homelessness in the town, linked in particular to the recent influx of Eastern European migrant labour in the Fens to work in the agricultural sector. The issue has placed significant strain on church staff and resources as the local police had nowhere else to refer people sleeping rough, as they do not qualify for Housing Benefit. This also had an impact on residents living near-by, and posed a potential risk to the Fire and Rescue Service where unsafe buildings were being used for shelter.
The Homeless Action Group identified suitable premises in the town for a small temporary night shelter, and prepared a detailed business plan including proposals for funding, staffing, and a referrals process. This has now been submitted to Fenland District Council and is currently under active consideration - return here in the future for an update.
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