Homeless charity gets £500k to transform hostel

A homeless charity has received £500,000 of funding to redevelop its hostel and boost the lifeline facilities on offer.

The Ferry Project, which supports people in the Fenland and Wisbech areas of Cambridgeshire, was awarded the cash from the National Lottery.

It was hoped the money could improve rooms at the Octavia View hostel in Wisbech, providing longer-term accommodation and mental health support for rough sleepers.

Charity founder and chief executive Keith Smith said the investment was "wonderful news".

The Ferry Project said it helped more than 300 homeless people every year since being founded in 1998.

As well as providing shelter, the charity's 40 members of staff also offered people help with employment, counselling and schemes such as art therapy and cookery.

Mr Smith said: "The funding will enable clients with enduring issues to receive support 24 hours a day, whilst developing the skills to enable them to live independently."

Rough sleepers living at the facility and former clients have been involved in drawing up plans for how bedrooms on the building's second floor would be redeveloped.

Up to 50 bed spaces have been on offer to those needing support in Wisbech.

The National Lottery Community Fund money would also fund an employment officer and pay for a counsellor for three years, the charity said.

"This is wonderful news. It is marvellous to see this level of investment in Wisbech," Mr Smith added.

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