Salvation Army Plans For Three New Homes

Jersey's Salvation Army has submitted plans to create three new homes for young families on Minden Place.

The charity wants to renovate derelict buildings near its current base in St Helier to provide emergency accommodation for families who face being made homeless.

If approved, the restoration will make one three bed, one two bedroom and a one bed home.

                                    Proposed floor plans for the new homes. Credit: Godel Architects 

Leaders of the charity, Captains Alice and Richard Nunn say they often see families in crisis, especially during the cost of living crisis.

"The three secure homes will be for families or households of differing sizes, primarily with children.

Although these won’t be long-term homes, during the time they are with us we will provide holistic care and support, as well as advocating for the families to ensure they eventually may move into more suitable and permanent homes where they will be able to thrive."

 The Salvation Army is based in Minden Place where it has a charity shop and café.

They have been working over the past few months to design the new homes, and to make the buildings watertight.

The Salvation Army says the housing provision is intended run alongside other accommodation that is provided for the island's homeless.

"We know the system is under increasing pressure, especially in this economic climate. The insecurity, especially for families with young children, puts unnecessary strain on parents and children at a time when they feel most vulnerable

Although we know our three homes won’t solve the housing problem – the accommodation is not designed to be a ‘long-term’ solution – it will be an additional resource available to give families much needed breathing space and support during a very difficult phase of life."

No timescale for the projects completion has been agreed, but fundraising ideas are already being discussed.