I am writing on behalf of the Night Shelter team to thank everyone in the community for the kindness shown in recent weeks.

We have been offered catering equipment, bedding and financial gifts and we feel very much supported as we prepare to offer a potential refuge for those without a place to stay over the coming weeks and complement the provision of the Council. Monmouth consistently displays real generosity, and this venture is proving to be no exception. The Shelter is due to operate Wednesday to Friday nights to the end of February, with 15 January to be the first night we are available, and it may be helpful to give some details of how it will work.

We are in partnership with Monmouthshire County Council who have responsibilities towards those that are homeless in the area. MCC are providing the premises, giving financial support, and this year will be providing an Assertive Housing Support service through Llamau who will give dedicated support to the guests. Furthermore it is the MCC that will identify who (if anyone) the Shelter will be receiving each night and will refer them to us. The reference system is to provide security to both the host team and the guest and ensure the guest does not have needs the Shelter cannot meet, procedures that are consistent with those used in other authority areas.

To be referred a potential guest must contact MCC Housing Options Team before 3.30pm who will go through the necessary process to assess their circumstances and determine if they should be placed with us. If you encounter someone who may need the Shelter we offer and want to help then advise them to go to the Hub in the library from where the contact with MCC can be made. On days the Shelter is not functioning, we will be liaising with the Council and Llamau about other arrangements.

Ian Roberts (Monmouth Night Shelter)