At Home in Guernsey aims to end homelessness

At Home in Guernsey plans to offer one-to-one support

A new charity aiming to end homelessness in Guernsey has been launched.

At Home in Guernsey will offer one-to-one support to people who are homeless and those who are at risk.

The charity was launched by the Guernsey Community Foundation.

The foundation's chief executive, Jim Roberts, said the island's "hidden homelessness problem" can have "catastrophic" consequences.

In 2023, as part of its Indicators of Poverty report, the States estimated more than 1,000 men, women and children were insecurely housed - an increase of about 50% since 2016.

'Hidden homeless'

Chief executive officer of Specsavers, who are sponsoring the scheme, John Perkins, said: "Homelessness in the UK is often very visible.

"Turn your gaze to Guernsey and there are far less obvious signs.

"But the uncomfortable truth is that Guernsey has a significant hidden homeless problem, which as a community we need to do all we can to support."

Funding has been guaranteed for at least three years to enable the charity to recruit staff, find its own base and start helping people.

Mr Roberts said: "At Home in Guernsey will help individuals and families who have lost, or who are at risk of losing, a roof over their head —something most of us take for granted.

"If you don't have somewhere safe, accessible and affordable to live, the consequences can be catastrophic."

At Home in Guernsey will work closely with social housing providers, landlords, statutory agencies and third sector organisations.

It will be based at the foundation's headquarters at KGV Playing Fields in Castel until suitable premises are found.