Plans to shut down a homeless unit in Greenock – considered “no longer fit for purpose” – are moving forward as information is shared on a 24-hour service.
The Inverclyde Centre in Dalrymple Street is being wound down as part of a switch to a community-based accommodation model supported by a helpline.
The timeline of the facility’s closure had been delayed but preparations are now ramping up and the building has been closed to the public.
However, homelessness services will continue to be provided via 01475 715880, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and people will be offered community-based accommodation where required.
During normal office hours, people can also access support from the Inverclyde Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) office within the James Watt Building in William Street.
Councillor Francesca Brennan, vice chair of the integration joint board (IJB), which oversees the HSCP, and convener of the social work and social care scrutiny panel, said: “The Inverclyde Centre will soon close but it’s important to remember that the homelessness service is not closing and will continue as a community-based model supported by a new 24/7 helpline.
“The homeless shelter-style service at the Inverclyde Centre is an outdated model and the building itself is no longer fit for purpose.
“Temporary accommodation will still be available but it will be in the community, which is a more dignified solution for people who find themselves in a housing emergency.
“The main aim, however, remains around early intervention and prevention to avoid people becoming homeless in the first place and supporting them with other housing options.
“The dedicated phone line is for people who are in a housing emergency but also for those who are at risk of becoming homeless and is supported by trained staff who can explore all options available and find solutions.”
The transition has been led by the HSCP and was previously approved by the IJB.
Anyone presenting as homeless in Inverclyde will be assessed over the phone by trained staff and provided with access to out-of-hours support. They will be able to access temporary accommodation where required.
The Inverclyde Centre opened in 1944 but the model of emergency accommodation in a communal setting has been identified as out of step with national policy, local strategic ambitions and best practice.
The building, which is owned by Inverclyde Council, is due to be knocked down at a later date.
