For those facing the harsh reality of rough sleeping in Bradford, one dedicated team who refused to give up on them, has now earned themselves a prestigious national gold award.
Bradford’s Homeless Outreach Partnership won gold in the ‘Housing’ category at the Local Government Chronicle Awards.
Commissioned by the then Labour-run Bradford Council in 2019, the Homeless Outreach Partnership is a 12-strong multi-agency team working across the district.
The team that “do not give up on anyone”, works directly with people who are sleeping rough, helping them access the right support for their circumstances and needs. It brings together drug and alcohol workers, complex needs workers and housing options specialists.
The partnership has been led by team co-ordinator Clare Flannigan from Horton Housing since it launched. She said: “When we first meet people, they are often literally on the streets.
“They are out of options and it is heartbreaking. We work every day with people who are facing very complex situations, often with a background of trauma.
“There is no doubt the work can be highly challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. We really get to know people and it is a privilege to see them make progress.
“This award recognises a true partnership effort, with people from many agencies working together to improve people’s lives.
“There really is support there for everyone when they are ready to take it.
“Whether that is now, in six days, six months or years down the line, we are there. We are a safety net and we will not give up on anyone.”
Councillor Jayne Morgan, Bradford Council’s Cabinet Member for Healthy People, said: “This award is a testament to the hard work of the Homeless Outreach Partnership, who are on the streets every day offering support and accommodation to those in need.
“The HOP has transformed the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in this district. It is a truly pioneering approach in the way that it is so collaborative with many partners.
“I wish to accompany the team on the street soon, so that I can support the team and see their hard work for myself. I thank them all for their efforts and send a huge ‘well done’ for doing their work so tirelessly.”
Other projects in the District include the No Second Night Out service, delivered with the charity Humankind, which provides emergency accommodation for people who need immediate support. The Council also commissions longer-term accommodation for people who have been sleeping rough, and has secured funding for additional beds across the district.
Bradford’s Housing First initiative also supports people with a history of repeated homelessness and very complex needs. Delivered in partnership with housing providers and the local charity Bridge Project, Housing First gives people their own home and tenancy, alongside intensive, open-ended support.
