Trinity Winchester gets £60,000 grant from Winchester City Council

Winchester City Council agreed to give Trinity £60,000 to appoint a housing manager and move-on development coach. 

The housing manager will support people to remain in accommodation and maintain good rent accounts. The move-on development coach will work with the 20 residents of Trinity’s accommodation together with approximately 50 centre users and women’s services who are in private rented accommodation or housing association properties. The coach will help people develop tenancy life skills through group support and navigate their housing options once they leave Bradbury View.

The city council agreed to trigger the funds at the housing cabinet committee on Monday, February 5.

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Cllr Chris Westwood, cabinet member for housing, said: “The council is committed to alleviating homelessness. Trinity continues to be a key partner in our efforts to help homeless people.”

Former city councillor Ian Tait questioned the need for the funds. He said: “I am perplexed by what we are trying to achieve. The Beacon (in Jewry Street) was set up at a similar time to Trinity. There is a duplication of services. 

“What is in need is ongoing support to allow people to stay in homes. Virtually all of the beggars in Winchester are housed, support is what they need.”

Sue McKenna, chief executive at Trinity, said: “We're very pleased to be recommended for a grant. This grant will allow us to give further support. The aim is to stop the cycle of rough sleeping, I believe we are getting there. 

“The root causes of anxiety and trauma will be addressed.”

Cllr Westwood said: “Trinity and the Beacon do complimentary but different jobs. I'm grateful we have both in the city. The work of Trinity to stop repeat rough sleeping is very valuable. I'm pleased Trinity has applied for the grant.”

The grant was unanimously approved.