June 2020 update

Accommodation - Since the arrival of COVID-19 in the Island, more than 50 people have turned to The Shelter Trust for emergency accommodation and, in response The Trust has opened two new units of accommodation providing an additional 22 beds.

The Shelter Trust now has capacity for 124 residents (single room occupancy - in line with COVID-19 guidance) and The Trust is presently sleeping 115 people.

Outreach - The Outreach Service is maintaining contact with many new and former service users at various locations including hotels, private accommodations and family homes. They are also checking rough sleeping venues several times per week and at present they are supporting two rough sleepers who are living in their vehicles. Both have declined the offer of a bed at Aztec House, but they are accessing showers and food provided by The Trust.

Service Users - During the ‘Lockdown’ period The Trust benefitted enormously from the good sense, mutual care and support of old and new service users while management and staff worked hard to boost morale, encourage individuals and sustain a constructive, harmonious atmosphere in the face of exceptionally difficult circumstance, the likes of which nobody has experienced previously. To date Shelter Trust strategies have proved in large measure successful.

Health - two service users and two staff members have recently been tested for COVID-19, all returned negative outcomes. The Government of Jersey have advised The Trust that antibody testing is available for essential staff and that option will be pursued as soon as is practicable.

The Future - It is really difficult to predict the future in terms of the economy and the jobs market, but existing service users plus people who may be at risk of homelessness in the future should be assured that in the coming weeks, months and years the Trust will work with Government and partner agencies to mitigate problems and pressures as they arise - The Shelter Trust will be there, ready and able to support homeless people in Jersey.

Take Care. Stay Safe.