It Takes a City has secured government funding to provide safe, secure accommodation for those Cambridge rough sleepers at risk during the coming Winter. The project again demonstrates the positive, lasting changes that can be achieved when communities come together in mutual aid.
During the winter of 2020/21, we were a key operating partner at Masters House for those being accommodated under the “Everyone In” initiative, and as emergency accommodation for those on the streets during extreme weather. We called upon our network of volunteers to coordinate meals, laundry, practical help, pastoral care, and resettlement support.
Masters House demonstrated the power of partnerships and how positive outcomes can be achieved for those on the journey from street to home. The new funding provides an opportunity to try a different approach to the ‘communal floors’ model operated in previous years under SWEP (Severe Weather Emergency Protocol).
“This pilot project marks a significant step-up in the level and quality of winter provision for Cambridge rough sleepers. Building on last year’s successful ‘Everyone In’ campaign which saw all Cambridge rough sleepers offered a place where they can be safe from Covid, the project will run continuously throughout the Winter, providing all guests with a safe and warm room of their own. The Council is pleased to be working with It Takes a City and other partners.”
Mike Todd-Jones, Executive Councillor for Housing, Cambridge City Council
