Nick Gibb visited the homelessness charity, Stonepillow in Ellasdale Road, Bognor Regis at the invitation of the chief executive of the charity, Hilary Bartle.
Stonepillow not only provide beds and high quality accommodation at their two hostels (16 rooms in Bognor Regis, 11 rooms in Chichester), they also provide day services for rough sleepers at their basement premises in Clarence Road, Bognor Regis; services such as showers, clean clothes and a meal.
The charity also helps people back into regular condition and into work. And they support people who are on the verge of becoming homeless.
Stonepillow employ 106 staff as well as 160 volunteers. Over the course of a year they help approximately 900 people.
Nick Gibb said, “The staff and volunteers at Stonepillow do a wonderful job supporting and protecting people who are at the most vulnerable time in their lives.
“Homelessness can be triggered by a traumatic event such as bereavement or other loss. It can happen to anyone but those leaving the care system without continuing support can be particularly susceptible.
“And mental health issues can sometimes lead to homelessness if the proper care isn’t provided or sought.
“Stonepillow, a local charity, expertly led by Hilary Bartle, is a 24 hour a day operation that ensures no homeless person slips through the net. All the staff and volunteers deserve our thanks and admiration.”
Photo: Nick Gibb in the kitchen with Day Support Worker, Charlie O’Riordan.
Photo: from left: Hilary Bartle (chief executive Stonepillow), Nick Gibb, Jo Langrish (Hostel Team Leader).