A CONVERSATION with two constituents who had worked hard to leave homelessness, drug misuse and unemployment behind has led York MP Hugh Bayley to visit a city-based scheme aimed at the long-term homeless.

Following the discussion, Mr Bayley decided to visit the Solid Foundations Tenancy Support Scheme, based at the Salvation Army Citadel in Gillygate, to find out more about its work from manager Susan Broster.

The scheme was set up in October 2000 as a partnership project between the Salvation Army and York Housing Association.

Solid Foundations is specifically targeted at men and women who have been long-term homeless. The aim of the scheme is to provide people with a viable alternative to the "street" lifestyle, and to support them through a resettlement programme into independent accommodation.

Solid Foundations is funded by City of York Council, and employs two full-time workers who are based in Gillygate. So far six people have successfully completed the scheme and have signed up to a "secure tenancy".

Nine people are currently in accommodation and receiving ongoing support from the team. Five others are awaiting an offer of accommodation, one is waiting to sign a licence agreement, and a further two are due to be accepted on the programme.

Mr Bayley said: "When I met my two constituents, I was impressed with how far they had come from their earlier lifestyle. It was through them that I found out about the support that Solid Foundations had given them, and to other homeless people who need help to move on to a more constructive life."

Updated: 10:24 Wednesday, February 26, 2003