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Landlords from The Lamb Inn, Worle High Street have raised hundreds of pounds to cook Christmas dinner for 48 people (which includes families and individuals) currently living in temporary and emergency accommodation in Weston-super-Mare.
Mandi Dexter from The Lamb Inn, said: “We’d like to thank our generous locals and business partners for providing support to those in our community who are less fortunate this winter, especially at Christmas time.
“I am grateful to our regulars who have given up their evenings to come and help wrap presents – and those who have offered to deliver gifts and food to the residents on Christmas Day, including volunteers from the council’s Homeless Prevention, Housing Solutions and Parking teams.
“As well as monetary donations from our customers and local businesses including L Stacey Development Services Ltd, we have been humbled by the generosity of our catering providers, Brakes and Booker Ltd who have provided vegetables and groceries.”
North Somerset Council’s Homeless Prevention team offers housing advice and support to anyone who is homeless or threatened with homelessness (including anyone sleeping rough).
The team works alongside other partnership agencies to prevent homelessness wherever possible and gives assistance to find accommodation. This includes pathways to support and independent living for those who have experienced street homelessness.
Cllr Mike Bell, North Somerset Council's executive member with responsibility for housing said: "Our aim is to prevent homelessness wherever we can and we also have an ambition to end rough sleeping in North Somerset.
“We are doing everything we can to seek alternative accommodation for those households threatened with homelessness. But due to the lack of affordable housing we often have to provide temporary or emergency accommodation before more permanent accommodation can be found.
“Sadly, there are still people who find themselves in these desperate situations. And, as we think of those who most need our help and compassion, I am very grateful to all of the volunteers, businesses and staff who work throughout Christmas and New Year to rise to this challenge."
The council’s Homeless Prevention team works alongside other agencies in North Somerset who provide help and services to people who are at risk of homelessness or sleeping rough. The council funds outreach support services delivered by the YMCA, advice services run by Citizens Advice (NS) and contributes to day centre facilities where daily meals, medical help, washing and laundry are available.
Anyone concerned about a rough sleeper is asked to contact North Somerset Council’s Homeless Prevention team on hp.triage@n-somerset.gov.uk or 01934 426 330. You can also contact Street Link through their website www.streetlink.org.uk by ringing 0300 500 0914 or through the Street Link app.
Anyone who needs help with food support should visit the Better Health North Somerset website at www.betterhealthns.co.uk/eat-well.