THE minister for welfare delivery visited a Salisbury-based charity supporting the homeless.

MP Will Quince joined representatives from Alabaré to see first hand its work providing housing and support to homeless and vulnerable people on Thursday.

He visited the charity’s 41-bed supported accommodation project in Salisbury.

Mr Quince was able to speak with a number of service users and staff members regarding their experiences with Universal Credit, for which he holds responsibility in the Department for Work and Pensions.

He was also able to learn more about Alabaré’s work with ex-service personnel and the Veterans Self Build programme.

The scheme enables homeless and vulnerable armed forces veterans to assist in the construction of housing projects in which they are able to live upon completion.

Mr Quince said: “This government is determined to help anyone experiencing homelessness or rough sleeping into stable accommodation and employment.

“This is not solely a government issue though and it is vital we work alongside organisations such as Alabaré, who do such fantastic work to support vulnerable people across England and Wales.

“I recently announced a £3 million fund, which will allow Jobcentre staff to get out on the streets to directly support those most vulnerable, helping with challenges such as benefit claims and directing them to additional support. This is in addition to £6 million to fund more than 100 Armed Forces Champion posts at Jobcentres across the country.”

Alabaré provide supported housing and drop in facilities to homeless and vulnerable people across the south, South West and Wales.

In addition to providing services for those suffering from homelessness, Alabaré also has specialist projects for young people, armed forces veterans and adults with learning disabilities.

  • Tomorrow (Friday, February 7), Alabaré is holding its Big Sleep fundraiser in the Cloisters of Salisbury Cathedral.