Skipton and Ripon MP the Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE visited a service for people experiencing homelessness in Craven on Friday (13 September 2024).
The MP was invited by Horton Housing to meet tenants and colleagues at the Craven Homeless Hub to find out more about the services provided in the district for people who are at risk of or who have experienced homelessness.
The Craven Rough Sleeper Pathway is funded by North Yorkshire County Council and provides holistic, trauma-informed and strength-based accommodation and support in Skipton.
Sir Julian Smith spoke to tenants who had experienced homelessness for a variety of reasons.
He said: “I am grateful to Horton Housing Association for inviting me to visit the Craven Homeless Hub. I was pleased to learn about the dedication of the staff and the experiences of the people they support. Horton Housing’s approach is clearly making a difference, supporting people facing homelessness.
“This service provides more than just a roof over people’s heads, it helps them build the skills and confidence needed to move towards independent living. It is important that we continue to support and invest in such vital services, which not only reduces homelessness but also eases the pressure on public sector services.”
Lucas Lis, one of the tenants, said: “It was a unique experience. I loved it!’
Lucas made such an impression on the MP that he was invited to visit him in Parliament.
Services Director Ann Kendall from Horton Housing said: “The Craven Rough Sleeper Pathway provides a vital service supporting people who are rough sleeping and people who are at imminent risk of rough sleeping, moving them away from the streets as quickly as possible into safe and supported accommodation. “We were delighted to welcome Sir Julian Smith to our service to show him how we are working with people experiencing homelessness to help them rebuild their lives and move into longer term homes.”
Horton Housing Association specialises in providing high quality housing, training and support for people in North Yorkshire, Bradford, Kirklees and Calderdale and North Yorkshire.
