Signposts Start Over Shelter celebrated its grand opening on Thursday, June 26, and was supported by many other agencies in the town.
The Community Volunteer team have been working hard with Maggi Baldwin, the Start Over Shelter manager and other staff to revamp the building on Dallow road.
The Start Over Shelter opened its doors to the public on Monday, May 12, and has had 64 referrals and 34 clients admitted.
Members of the public were invited on a tour around the building and talk about the work Signposts do.
Maggi Baldwin said: “The main thing for our clients is that they can access 24 hour support, a warm bed, food and have a shower all under one roof. For some people it has been a very long time since they were able to have access to these things.
“The referral process has recently been reviewed and the protocol has recently been sent out.
“We ask that other agencies contact us to find out if there is a bed available and if there is a referral can be sent through. There is no waiting list at SOS, the bed is offered on a first come, first served basis giving potential clients the chance to just turn up if they need a bed.”
There are 12 beds available, showering facilities and communal areas, staff support clients to find long term suitable accommodation.
CEO Kevin Porter said: “Signposts has been working hard to scrap the stereotype around homelessness by raising awareness in Luton and Dunstable for many years and I am confident that we are going to continue to drive this ethos in the Start Over Shelter!
“Remember, homelessness is not a choice and we provide help, hope and a temporary home at SOS.”
For more information call 01582 432083.