Charity seeks land to tackle island homelessness

The project would provide secure temporary accommodation for up to two years

A charity hoping to build a housing project to tackle homelessness in Guernsey has asked the community to provide land and financial support.

The 2023 States of Guernsey Indicators of Poverty report said more than 1,000 islanders were without stable housing - an increase of about 50% since 2016.

Caritas is looking for a piece of land measuring 1,000m2 (10,763 sq ft), and hoped to raise £1m to fund the first phase of the project.

It said that the development would provide secure, temporary accommodation for up to two years.

"Homelessness is often a hidden issue in Guernsey but it is a reality for far too many," said Graham Merfield, chairman of Caritas.

"The rising cost of living and stagnant wages have only exacerbated the problem, making secure housing unattainable for many."

A number of charities have spoken out in recent months about the rising issue of homelessness in Guernsey and called on the States to provide more emergency housing.

The Employment and Social Security (ESS) and Environment and Infrastructure (E&I) previously said delivering housing units was a "top priority".

Mr Merfield said Caritas' project was about more than just providing shelter, adding that "it’s about giving people a safe place to call home, a community to belong to, and a chance to rebuild their lives with dignity".

Caritas said anyone that was able to assist should get in touch via their website.