THE Salvation Army’s annual health and information fair in Warrington saw a mobile screening unit providing extra peace of mind to the homeless community.
Giving vulnerable people the drive and resources to speak to local organisations, the fair was held at The Salvation Army Lifehouse (hostel), James Lee House, in Brick Street. Current and past residents were welcomed to a one stop shop of support from a range of agencies that could assist them in their journey out of homelessness.
A range of health professionals were present including an optometrist and a mental health team as well as organisations from the local community that work to support people in times of crisis such as housing and benefit support specialists who were on hand to offer guidance and advice.
An NHS portable testing unit was also present, screening guests for Hepatitis C alongside providing a liver health check with a non-invasive scan to see who is at risk of liver disease and signposting where necessary.
Paul Winstone, support worker at James Lee House said: “We strive to do our best for people experiencing homelessness and we’re proud to offer so much more than just giving someone a bed for the night; we provide practical support via a person-centred approach, giving people a reason to get up in the morning and see themselves as members of the community and not living with the label of homelessness.
“Our health and information fair allowed our residents, and members within the community, to meet with organisations that can help them in their journey out of homelessness, bringing companies to them, making them accessible as we know for many people taking that first step and holding down appointments can be hard. We are committed to putting the needs of the people we care for first, ensuring that they are given everything they need to make positive changes in their lives.”
James Lee House has been part of Warrington for more than five decades and provides 54 beds for men and women over the age of 18 experiencing homelessness in and around Warrington.
Matthew, 63, has been a resident at James Lee House for the past eight weeks after the end of his marriage meant leaving his home. He said: “Having all these organisations in the same place is a great resource and gives people a real drive to get their lives back on track and move on. Organisations are here that I wouldn’t have thought I needed, I plan to visit the optician and also see how the housing team can support me. The Salvation Army putting events like this on really builds you up, it gives you faith again in human nature.”
Salvation Army hostels, known as Lifehouses, provide specialist support and guidance to help residents tackle the complex reasons that led them to become homeless and help them end this cycle. James Lee House celebrated its 56th anniversary in July.
