New initiative to tackle homelessness gets green light

Salvation Army leaders in Basildon say they are delighted after planning permission was granted for a new initative to tackle homelessness.

The church and charity have joined forces with Citizens UK and housing developer The Hill Group to deliver Malachi Homes. The scheme will allow six modular homes to be developed. The homes include a bathroom, bedroom, living area and a fully equipped kitchen and will be installed on land at the edge of the Burnt Mills Estate.

The Salvation Army gives people who are homeless the support they need to rebuild their lives, including housing advice and training in basic life skills. 

Tackling the issues which can stop people moving on from homelessness and rough sleeping, such as mental health issues, addiction and childhood trauma, is essential.

Residents of the Malachi Homes project will be supported by a team of trained volunteers, supervised by a manager.

Aston spoke to Captain Paul Williams, Basildon’s Salvation Army leader.

Photo’s: Salvation Army