Manchester-based homelessness charity reopens its centre for people living in temporary accommodation after teaming up with KKS Savills for renovation work.
The Justlife centre, established in Openshaw in 2011, has provided a safe space for people who are hidden homeless and living in temporary accommodation, for over a decade.
The refurbished centre is designed to meet a growing demand for the charity’s support during a deepening cost of living crisis, by providing a flexible, multi-purpose space from which a range of services can be delivered to help people address mental health needs, build life skills, and ultimately move on from homelessness.
TA is temporary housing for people who are homeless. Justlife supports those living in unsupported TA, who are often uncounted in official statistics and fall through the cracks of state support.
Dean*, a TA resident who accesses Justlife’s services, said “They’ve listened, they’ve been there, and no matter when I’ve phoned up or what questions I’ve asked, they’ve always responded and sorted things out for me straight away, which I could never sort out for myself”
KKS Savills, an independent design studio specialising in full service interior architecture and design, led the redevelopment and assembled a team of architects, sustainability advisors, consultants and engineers who offered their expertise free of charge.
Carl Mitchell, Director of KKS Savills, said “This is a lovely scheme and we wanted to help Justlife make the most out of the space and ultimately make it work more effectively so that they can support the growing number of people in Manchester who are living in unsupported temporary accommodation. ”
TA residents will be able to make appointments at the centre, and receive support to apply for social housing, overcome rent arrears, manage their bills, and understand their rights and entitlements.
The improved space can also now accommodate small group activities to combat loneliness and improve self-esteem, as well as private 1-1 appointments with Specialist Support Workers for people who may feel anxious about engaging with bigger groups.
Jean, who is supported by Justlife, said the new space “Gives me a feeling of calmness…you’ve made it so homely”
Ruth Cox, Operations Manager for Justlife’s Manchester work, said “The new space is almost unrecognisable. We are thrilled to finally be able to provide our people with a safe, well-designed, welcoming environment where they can access support, and enjoy activities in our garden area.
We expect that demand for homelessness services will continue to rise during this cost of living crisis, but we’ll continue to be there for people during this really challenging time. Our centre is central to this work”
*Name has been changed to protect their identity
