Jersey refuge backers listen to concerns

The local residents' association say the refuge should be in St Helier

Supporters of a controversial men's refuge in Jersey told a meeting of about 150 people they will listen to local residents' concerns.

Jersey Christian charity Caring Hands is due to open the refuge in March at former guest house Sabot D'or in St Aubin High Street.

The aim is to offer counselling to men going through trauma such as break-ups and breakdowns.

Some residents fear the refuge will be for drug addicts and alcoholics.

The local residents' association said the refuge should be in St Helier, but the local parish council has backed the refuge which will be for up to 10 men at a time.

The Reverend Mark Bond, of St Brelade's Church, said after the meeting at St Brelade's parish hall: "There are a lot of concerns that I totally understand and we will deal with them.

"But at the end of the day it is to help people and that is what we'll do.

"We'll take on board everything people have said and we'll work with them over the next few weeks."