Welfare checks find support in place for homeless residents

Following reports that homeless residents currently living at the Amblehurst hotel in Sale had been left without access to food, welfare checks have this week been carried out to ensure appropriate support is in place.

Staff from Trafford and Manchester City Councils visited and spoke to residents placed in the accommodation by both Councils, and were satisfied that they had access to money, benefits, medication, food and necessary support.

Council staff were also satisfied by the cleanliness of the hotel and the help and support provided to residents by hotel staff. In addition the hotel had the necessary Covid-19 social distancing signage in place and hand sanitiser available throughout.

While welfare checks on Trafford residents have been undertaken remotely on a weekly basis since lockdown commenced, this was the first joint visit in person with colleagues from Manchester City Council.

Cllr Andrew Western, Leader of Trafford Council said:

“Placing homeless residents in appropriate accommodation has been a priority for local authorities during the pandemic. Whilst we seek to minimise the use of bed and breakfast accommodation, on occasion this can’t be avoided. Our regular checks and this most recent visit confirmed that residents currently living at the Amblehurst hotel are receiving the food, medication and support they need.

By participating in schemes such as A Bed Every Night alongside our colleagues across Greater Manchester, we are using all the tools at our disposal to reduce homelessness in the borough and make sure ongoing support goes beyond basic accommodation and addresses other associated needs.”

Posted on Wednesday 5th August 2020