YOU have been offering your thoughts on the recent installation of homeless ‘pods’ in Wrexham.

Earlier this week Wrexham Council installed four converted shipping containers on land adjacent to Holt Road.

The pods will be used by the council’s housing options service to help people who might be homeless or need supporting into recovery.

Of the four new homes, three will be used as accommodation under a licence agreement with the service users living in them, while the fourth will only be used when the council’s Severe Weather Emergency Protocol – or SWEP – is activated.

 

The appearance of the pods has provided much public interest, with with lots of you supporting their introduction.

Commenting on the Leader Facebook page, Cathy Griffiths said: “I think the point is being missed here in what these units will be used for - that would be ‘recovery’ in action for homeless/addicts who are working on themselves with outreach organisations to stay in recovery long term by offering them a stepping stone to secure housing where they are supported in learning transferable skills in order for them to keep a roof over their head in the future.

“It’s not about labelling the homeless who do or don’t misuse a substance.

 

“They need support in recovery not stigmatisation. I hope the ones who have negative stereotypical attitudes towards the homeless who do or don’t misuse a substance never have to experience a loved one becoming homeless or an addict.”

Jennifer Louise Graham offered her thoughts on what the containers will achieve, saying: “Anything that helps even a few people has to be a good thing. There are lots of reasons why people find themselves homeless and drug addiction is an illness.

“Help support and rehabilitation is the only way to move forward. A bit of love and compassion goes a long way. I think it’s a positive move and a great idea.”

Meanwhile Mark Glaspole and Leanne Madeley-Jones praised Wrexham Council for the decision, with Mark saying: “A great start in the right direction by Wrexham council,” and Leanne saying: “Fantastic idea and definitely a step forward Wrexham Council.”