THE Salvation Army will launch a new hub to help people affected by homelessness as the organisation expands its existing services.

The hub opens on Lawrence Street on Tuesday, offering tailored support and access to a range of services, in line with the three-year contract the organisation has with the City of York Council, in effect from August this year.

There will be more space in the Early Intervention and Prevention (EIP) service, which will allow room for multiple partners and agencies, including sexual health, drug and alcohol, mental health and private lettings.

Safe spaces will also be provided for people to have a tea or coffee and access free internet and laptops, which will help with making benefit claims, searching for work and accommodation and keeping in touch with family and friends.

Service manager Charlie Malarkey said: “Today, we have had a great opportunity to bring our partners together to celebrate all we’ve achieved over many years and to look forward to how we can continue to support those most vulnerable in the city.

“We’re pleased it won’t be a one-off gathering. This regular round-up of support services is a feature of our work, further simplifying access to advice and assistance.

“We’re looking forward to building on our partnerships to bring transformation to people’s lives.”

Executive member for housing and safer neighbourhoods councillor Helen Douglas said: “Early intervention and prevention by the Salvation Army is a key component to the city’s approach to homelessness which, last year, prevented 616 households from becoming homeless.

“Where people need help to move into safer more stable lives, this new hub will be essential to the city’s gold-standard work and which we’re delighted to support.”

The organisation has provided homelessness services in the city for more than 20 years, and the EIP’s three-strong support team will continue to point people towards help and accommodation and co-ordinating the city’s ‘no second night out’ service.

Members of the public concerned about someone they have seen sleeping rough in York are encouraged to contact Streetlink by phone on 0300 500 0914, the website at streetlink.org.uk or the mobile app.

The full address of the hub is 63 Lawrence Street, York YO10 3BU.

The Salvation Army moved to its new location on July 1 this year, with the new contract awarded in August. The organisation works alongside City of York Council, Changing Lives, P3 (probation services), York Drug and Alcohol Services, Sash (Safe And Sound Homes), faith groups, Police Service, York Bid, Street Rangers, Carecent and York’s hospitals.