Six training flats are now available for young people facing homelessness in Guernsey.
The joint project between charities Maison Saint Pierre and Action for Children came to fruition last week with the new development in St Peter Port opened to its first residents.
The facility features six training flats, along with education and training facilities which will include an emergency crash pad for those experiencing a homelessness crisis. The flats are owned by Maison Saint Pierre and will be leased to Action for Children at a peppercorn rent, enabling the charity to deliver specialist support to young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
Peter Atkinson, Chair of Maison Saint Pierre, said he’s pleased the flats are now ready for use.
“MSP is a charity, which main purpose is to help address the needs of those who are vulnerable and at risk of homelessness,” he explained. “We have been pleased to enter into this partnership with AFC which will ensure that young people will have access to accommodation whilst in addition being equipped with the skills, they need to take them forward in life .It has been a lengthy and complex project funded by MSP along with many generous donations from others for which we are very grateful.”
The building on Victoria Road was bought by MSP last year, with Action for Children receiving funding from the Lloyds Bank Foundation for the Channel Islands, the Social Investment Fund, and the Guernsey Community Foundation to fund the staff team to operate the training accommodation, when it is open, said Aaron Davies, Service Manager for Action for Children in Guernsey.
“We are incredibly grateful to Maison Saint Pierre and their contractors for the determination and effort it’s taken to deliver this project. It’s now over to our fantastic team to expand our service and continue to deliver against our vision for young people and ultimately give young people in Guernsey the foundations they need to thrive.”
The charities have been supported by Evans Architects and Wheeler Developments in transforming unused office space on Victoria Road into a new hub for young people.
The development also benefited from donations and discounts from suppliers and companies across the building sector, with support from over many different businesses said James Ridout from Wheeler Developments.
“It has been an absolute pleasure and privilege for us to be involved with this incredible project. The support we have received from our industry and the supply chain has been nothing short of staggering. This project is a great example of some fantastic teamwork.”
Silvie Luscombe, Owner of Evans Architecture added: “It’s been a privilege to be part of this community project. Establishing the right design from the outset was crucial, given the challenges of the existing shell and its constraints, as well as the need to meet stringent building regulations. Bringing that vision to life then relied on excellent execution at every stage. Our thanks go to Wheeler Developments for their unwavering commitment throughout. We’re delighted to see the design delivered so successfully.”