New home for housing support services

Salford’s housing support services have got a new home.

The dedicated services, which tackle everything from homelessness to rent arrears, are relocating from Unity House, next to the Civic Centre in Swinton, to Wesley Street, opposite Swinton Gateway.

The new facility, known as Salford Housing Options Point (SHOP), provides a dedicated and fit-for-purpose centre to access all supported housing needs under one roof.

SHOP is home to Salford’s Housing Options Team, which provides free advice and support on a range of issues from homelessness and rough sleeping to domestic abuse and disabled adaptations.

The Supported Tenancies Team is also based at SHOP, providing additional support to help those in need live independently and maintain their tenancies; along with Salford Home Search – an online tool which advertises a wide range of accommodation options available in the area.

Mike Wright, head of housing choice at Salix Homes which manages the supported housing services on behalf of Salford Council, said: “Salford’s housing support services are more in demand than ever due to budget cuts and changes to the welfare system.

“Our new offices, which are located just a short walk away from our old building, will enable us to continue to deliver these essential services for the people of Salford in a fit-for purpose and more suitable setting.

“Our specialist officers deal with people from all walks of life who have for one reason or another fallen on hard times and need some housing related support, and we want the people of Salford to know that help is out there.

“We are here to help people get their lives back on track and I would urge anyone who does need any additional support to get in touch.”

SHOP is open Monday, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 8:30am – 4:30pm and on Wednesdays from 1pm – 4:30pm. If you need immediate housing support outside of these hours call the Emergency Duty Social Work Team on 0161 794 8888.