This summer, I visited Mindwise Inverary House in Belfast, a 12-bed residential hostel. I was joined by Amanda, our Practice and Participation Manager, and Nikki, our Lived Experience Coordinator. We met Jackie, the Mindwise Regional Housing Manager, Charlotte, the hostel manager, and Heather, a long-serving member of staff. Mindwise does incredible work supporting and empowering people affected by mental health issues to live their best lives.

Celebrating their 50th year, Inverary House is a vibrant part of Mindwise’s support portfolio. Charlotte explained how community living is a key part of resident wellbeing. The hostel’s location is ideal, and local businesses and faith groups provide regular financial support and practical help, assisting residents as they move on and access essential items.

New Tenancy Bridge Building Role

I was pleased to hear about a new Tenancy Bridge Building position that has recently been funded. Moving from hostel life to independent living can be difficult, as the support residents rely on often stops when they leave. This new role, funded through the Community Foundation’s Housing & Homelessness programme and supported by Oak Foundation, will provide continuity and make that transition easier.

Frontline Learning and Collective Advocacy

As Homeless Connect members, our staff can contribute to wider discussions on homelessness and its challenges as a collective voice. Through our Frontline Learning Network (FLN), staff can access training programmes to enhance their knowledge and connect with others working across the sector.

To become part of our Frontline membership and access FLN training opportunities, click here.

Melanie Bowden, Learning and Development Coordinator