This summer, we visited Hosford, East Belfast Mission’s Homelessness Services at the Skainos site on the Newtownards Road in Belfast. Aidan, Homelessness Service Manager, introduced us to the hostel, 240 Inclusion Hub, and the homelessness prevention wrap-around support. Staff in each area passionately shared their roles and the people they support, all with the shared aim of helping clients lead as fulfilling a life as possible, wherever they are on their journey toward getting or managing a home of their own.
Community Integration Through Hostel and Apartments
Locating the Hosford hostel and apartments within the Skainos building was a deliberate choice to connect clients with the local community. During our visit, we observed residents volunteering or working, actively engaging with the community, and building meaningful routines.
The 240 Inclusion Hub: Mental Health and Wellbeing Support
The 240 Inclusion Hub is a new initiative providing mental health and wellbeing support, offering weekly classes, and temporary apartments for six residents moving on from the hostel for up to a year. The recent addition of a mental health support worker is proving highly effective, helping clients manage challenges affecting their mental health and daily lives.
Volunteering, Work, and Skill Development
Partnerships with the East Belfast Mission Refresh Café and Restore Shop at Skainos offer residents opportunities to volunteer or work within the community. Clients also benefit from FareShare, which supplies food for both personal use and cookery classes at the 240 Hub.
Funding, Expansion, and Challenges
Various grants and funding streams have supported Hosford’s services and will help expand to include permanent, affordable community-led housing in the area. As a Homeless Connect member, accessing expert advice on policy and legislation has been integral in these applications.
Despite stretched staff and buildings, and challenges in moving clients into permanent homes, new programmes and initiatives continue to be developed. Aidan’s vision and the dedication of the team make this an inspiring site, showing real commitment to guiding clients through their journey, even in the face of growing demand from people from diverse backgrounds.
Melanie Bowden, Learning and Development Coordinator
