Written evidence submitted by N Welling, T McKenzie and Others [EXA 066]

I would like to add my signature to this open letter. In support of my support and housing provider Yenaa Housing based in Birmingham. I have been in several provisions previously and I can honestly say, this is the first time I have been with a housing provider, where I feel safe and supported. The team are always available to me, and I see them on a regular basis. I feel safe and am free from chaos and the fear of violence and aggression. I have a support worker who has helped me develop my own personal support plan and they encourage me to meet my targets and objectives, across all aspects of my support and housing needs.

They are easy to contact and respond quickly to maintenance issues within the house. The house is clean and tidy, and the team monitors the house on a regular basis. The assessments they complete take account of others in the house, and this makes the house safe for us all.

We are aware of the scrutiny supported accommodation has been under and would like those making decisions to understand what a vitally important role it plays in our lives. There a very few options when you are facing homelessness and do not have a support network to help you. There are some awful providers around, who only care about filling beds. My current provider Yenaa Housing are excellent.

January 2022