Burnley homelessness service celebrates two years with afternoon tea

Gateway Burnley, a local homelessness supported accommodation service, has supported more than 60 homeless individuals in the Burnley area move on to independent living in their own homes in the tow years it has been operating.

The service specialises in supporting homeless individuals struggling with complex needs, allowing them to access accommodation even when they have been refused elsewhere.

Since opening its doors, the service has seen a lot of celebrations. From residents achieving qualifications with Lancashire Adult Learning, gaining essential cooking skills through the onsite classes and achieving abstinence milestones.

The latest celebration saw clients enjoy afternoon tea kindly donated by On The Bread Line and Co.

Kate Cunliffe, Homelessness Services Manager, Gateway, said: "The past two years have seen so many successful outcomes at Gateway Burnley, but we are constantly striving for more. Despite the increased pressures of the current pandemic, we continue to provide vital support for homeless individuals across East Lancashire."

Throughout the pandemic, Gateway has been working to provide additional support for rough sleepers. At the height of the crisis, staff supported local efforts to temporarily house homeless individuals following the Government’s call to ‘get everyone in’.

A number of empty Calico Homes properties were repurposed to provide safe spaces for those looking to self-isolate.

The service has also seen countless birthdays, Eid celebrations, Easter egg hunts, Christmas Day feasts for over 40 people and was even named Best Homelessness Scheme at the National 24 Housing awards.