Shropshire Council welcomes first tenants to The Tannery in Shrewsbury

Shropshire Council has welcomed the first tenants into The Tannery, in Shrewsbury, marking a significant step in its commitment to providing better housing solutions for the homeless.

The move follows approval by the councils Cabinet, to make use of the Tannery East building in Shrewsbury as temporary supported housing for homeless people.

So far ten single homeless individuals have transitioned from costly B&B accommodations to much-improved living spaces that feature self-contained bathroom facilities and shared kitchens. The move is part of a phased programme aimed at relocating 60 residents from B&B accommodations over the next few weeks.

The new residents at The Tannery are not only benefiting from enhanced living conditions but also have access to onsite housing support workers as well as employment specialists from the council’s Enable Supported Employment Services to help gain access to employment. The facility is managed by staff around the clock, ensuring residents feel safe and secure at all times.

One of the most appreciated features by the new tenants is the ability to prepare and cook their own food, fostering a sense of independence and well-being. Additionally, The Tannery includes adapted properties for disabled individuals and is preparing to welcome homeless residents requiring level access facilities.

Councillor Dean Carroll, Cabinet Member for Housing and Assets, said:

“Shropshire Council remains committed to improving the lives of those in need and will continue to work tirelessly to support our community’s most vulnerable members.

“This milestone is a great opportunity for the Council and for those we have a duty to help. It will allow us to offer high-quality temporary accommodation and support for single homeless people, while also saving money for the Council and making the best use of a Council asset. We appreciate that residents and businesses may have questions about how the proposal will work in practice.

“Our dedicated and fully trained staff are now eager to provide comprehensive housing support to all residents.

“We will continue to work with the local community and partners to address any queries they may have about The Tannery and other temporary accommodation projects.”

Patrick, one of the new residents at The Tannery added:

“When I first went into temporary accommodation I just sat on the bed and cried, it was horrible, since moving here it feels like the ritz especially with all the support I get and the good feeling about the place.”

Gemma Jones, Shropshire Council’s Housing Support coordinator, said:

“I’m really delighted that everything is going really well. It’s good to see the reassurance in people’s faces when they walk into their bedrooms and kitchen areas, knowing they have a space to sleep and cook for themselves and everyone has commented on how safe they feel with staff being available 24hrs a day.

“We have already identified care support needs for one unwell individual which was not identified until move in and thankfully within 24 hrs, we have been able to link in with the adult social care team, where they have come out and assessed the individual and arranged a Care Support Package. Getting this result within 24hrs is extraordinary and really impressive.”