GCH has been shortlisted for Best Supported Housing (Rural/suburban) in the Inside Housing Development Awards.
Inside Housing said “Supported housing plays an absolutely crucial role in society, providing homes that enable individuals to thrive and also reduce pressure on the NHS and care services. The judges will be looking for a development that best meets the needs of residents, contributing to their health, wellbeing and long-term quality of life.”
GCH is up against eight other supported housing developments for the award and the winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on Friday 29 September in London.
Citadel House in Stroud is an innovative partnership between Gloucester City Homes, Stroud District Council and Dog’s Trust has improved the quality of life for people experiencing homelessness by providing safe, homely temporary accommodation where pets are welcome too.
Over 90% of homelessness professionals report barriers for clients accessing homelessness services because they had a dog. For most dog owners, being separated from their dog is no different from being separated from a family member. Many dog owners experiencing homelessness are forced to make the heart-breaking decision to give up their beloved pets just so they can have somewhere safe and secure to sleep.
One resident at Citadel House said that being reunited with their dog has significantly improved their mental wellbeing , helping them feel they could leave other problems behind and start rebuilding their life. Another said they hadn’t felt this safe for a long time as all their family, friends and support network is in Stroud. “It means so much to be back,” they said.