New housing built to help rough sleepers

The micro-flats give rough sleepers an opportunity to move on to independent living

More temporary accommodation has been built at a site that offers a safe space for people experiencing homelessness.

The Bus Shelter in Weymouth has introduced five new self-contained flats to support former rough sleepers who want to live more independently.

The charity provides shelter and 24-hour tailored support to enable guests to access local services.

Emily McCarron, chief executive and co-founder of Bus Shelter, said: "We believe everyone deserves the dignity of a safe and stable home, and this initiative brings us closer to making that a reality for each of our guests."

Each home has its own living room, kitchen, bathroom and bedroom

The flats, costing £470,000, will provide a home to an extra five people on top of the 12 already supported.

Also known as "moving-on" units, the accommodation gives tenants an opportunity to manage their home by cooking in their own kitchen, paying bills and maintaining the property.

Ms McCarron said: "The new flats are more than just a roof over someone's head - they are the next step in their journey... consistent support and opportunity is given for rebuilding lives, fostering hope and empowering individuals to embrace a brighter future."

The Bus Shelter, which was started in 2016, began with a converted double-decker bus to provide living accommodation for homeless people.

In 2023, Dorset Council funding helped with the expansion of the project and paid for five accommodation "pods".

On the Isle of Wight a similar charity was set up in 2016 with a double-decker turned into a mobile homeless shelter for rough sleepers.