Local charity Caritas Guernsey have submitted a planning application for two emergency sleeping pods as a part of plans to fight homelessness on the Island.
The pods would be located in the corner of the carpark at the Vale Douzaine Room to serve the parish.
The ‘pods with purpose’ will “provide safe, immediate, and dignified overnight shelter for people with nowhere else to turn” according to the charity.
Designed by UK based firm Amazing Grace Spaces, the pods are “a potential life saver” for a homeless person.
This proposal comes following a report from local charity At Home in Guernsey which warned that over 1,000 people on the island are “insecurely housed”, meaning that they are at risk of losing their home or are currently experiencing homelessness.
The States formed a new housing committee in January of this year to combat the housing crisis, which became active this month.
Measuring only 8ft by 6ft, each pod will include a secure sleeping space, a chemical toilet and battery storage. They are also solar powered and have been designed to minimise disruption to the surrounding area.
Caritas have committed to working with any individual who uses the pods to find them longer term accommodation and access to any essential services they require.
Caritas Guernsey Chair, Graham Merfield, commented: “These pods are not a final solution—they are a compassionate and practical step while we work towards building a community of modular homes in Guernsey. Until then, we cannot turn our backs on those sleeping rough. Everyone deserves shelter, safety, and dignity.”
The pods form the first step in Caritas’ plan to create a modular housing site for individuals experiencing homelessness in Guernsey.
Modular housing is increasingly being explored as a way of supporting homeless individuals across the globe due to the lower cost and speed with which modular homes can be constructed. Caritas are currently looking for a suitable site on the Island to support this.
Vale Douzaine commented: “The Constables and Douzaine of the Vale believe this initiative is a valuable and meaningful response to homelessness in Guernsey. We fully support the project and are pleased that our grounds can be used to help provide immediate, practical support to those in need.”
Caritas are seeking volunteers to assist with the cleaning and maintenance of the pods and can be contacted at volunteer@caritas.org.gg or on Instagram or Facebook.