People who were facing life on the streets in Middleton move into their new homes

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The recently developed self-contained, one-bedroom apartments in Middleton have been provided by RBH

People in Middleton who were homeless or at risk have been given the opportunity to move into new homes and turn their lives around.

Thanks to a partnership between Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) and homelessness charity Stepping Stone Projects (SSP), 10 apartments have been made available for those most in need.

The recently developed self-contained, one-bedroom apartments in Middleton have been provided by RBH. SSP will be supporting the new tenants, enabling them to eventually move on to living independently.

One of the new tenants, who wishes to remain anonymous, had been living in a homeless hostel for five months until he was able to move into one of these apartments.

He said: “This is a fantastic new project and great for helping people like myself get the help they need for independent living.

“My flat is beautiful and came fully furnished and newly decorated. It felt like home the second I walked through the door. It's a nice area, close to shops, cafes and the bus station, and it's on a quiet street so perfect for a good night's sleep.

“My keyworker is absolutely fantastic, she never rests until everyone in the flats is happy and I can't thank her enough for everything she's done for me. I'm happy and stress and worry free now, this was the best move I’ve ever made.”
 

Read more: New homes for rough sleepers in RochdalePublished: 24 September 2020

Dave Smith, chief executive of Stepping Stone Projects, added: “This project is a result of a very strong partnership between Stepping Stone Projects and RBH, who are both committed to ending homelessness in Rochdale.

“I’m so pleased to see people who were vulnerable now moving into these fantastic homes, where they will be able to access the support they need to get them on their feet again.

“Homelessness remains at crisis point, but partnerships such as this provide the opportunity for us to engage with people and empower them to build a new life with a secure place to call home.”

Gareth Swarbrick, RBH Chief Executive, said: "I’m really proud that we have been able to expand our partnership with Stepping Stone Projects to help more local people into safe and high quality homes.

“These new homes are about far more than bricks and mortar – I know that the dedicated team at Stepping Stone will provide residents with the support that they need to rebuild their lives and thrive."