New scheme supports those in need

Bernard Gallagher, group chief executive at Regenda unveiling a commemorative plaque to mark the official opening of the new supported housing service at Beswicke Royds Street with Lynda Robinson, Chair of Petrus

A new supported housing service for up to 14 vulnerable people has officially opened at Beswicke Royds Street, Rochdale.

The event to mark the opening was hosted by Lynda Robinson, Chairwoman of Petrus and a ceremonial plaque was unveiled after a speech by Bernard Gallagher, group chief executive at Regenda.

Mr Gallagher said: “This new service is owned by Regenda and managed by the Petrus Community, a partnership which has been in place for over 25 years.

“It provides much needed safe, supported accommodation for homeless people in Rochdale.

“The scheme offers comfortable, high quality housing, allowing people to live as independently as possible in the community.”

Ms Robinson said Petrus were “delighted” to have had the opportunity to take on the new service in partnership with Regenda.

She added: “This new service replaces a smaller provision which Petrus operated and offers far superior accommodation and facilities.”

The ceremony was attended by residents from the scheme, Councillor James Gartside, Councillor Daalat Ali, Councillor Karen Burke, Councillor Martin Rodgers, Simon Danczuk MP for Rochdale and Jim Dobbin MP for Heywood and Middleton.