Justin Visits Salvation Army Site At Booth House To See Supported Housing & Social Enterprise Schemes

The North Swindon MP and Minister for Family Support, Housing & Child Maintenance, Justin Tomlinson, has joined staff & volunteers from the Swindon branch of the Salvation Army to learn more about the work they do locally.

The Salvation Army works in 128 countries, demonstrating Christian principles through practical support; offering unconditional friendship, and very practical help to people of all ages, backgrounds and needs.

Justin's new role as a Work & Pensions Minister sees him lead on a variety of issues including supported housing. Last month, Justin announced that responsibility for supporting housing would remain with central government rather than being devolved.

During the visit Justin met with staff & volunteers from the Salvation Army as well as residents living at Booth House. In addition to this, he received a tour of the two social enterprises the Salvation Army operates out of the Booth House site to support its residents - The Sandwich People (which caters for private & charity events across Swindon) and Recycles (which fixes, restores & sells bicycles).

Both social enterprises provide an opportunity for residents living in the supported housing to learn new skills & benefit from the opportunity of work.

The Booth House site in Swindon town centre provides specialist support to individuals experiencing homelessness and other connected issues. It is one of a number of Salvation Army sites in the town including the specialist Gloucester House in Highworth, which provides tailored rehabilitation services for people with alcohol & drug addiction.

Justin Tomlinson MP said: "I was delighted to meet the residents, staff & volunteers of Booth House to see the work they are doing in Swindon. The Salvation Army sites in Swindon provide valuable support & opportunities to people experiencing a variety of challenges from homelessness to addiction. I was particularly pleased to see the success of the two social enterprises - The Sandwich People & Recycles - which are two thriving local businesses providing real opportunities for the residents of Booth House to learn new skills & progress."