An emergency solution has been found to put a roof over the head of PATH who must move from temporary premises at Roebuck House today (Monday 29 Oct). Torbay Council and PATH are partners in the TESH (Torbay End Street Homelessness) initiative which, with the help of local community volunteers, is providing practical services for homeless and vulnerable adults in crisis in Torbay.

Torbay Council and the TDA have worked with the charity to identify a short term option so the charity can keep services running. There are no suitable Council-owned properties available for the homeless charity to move into, but the Council has offered the use of 87 Abbey Road as a temporary emergency solution. This property has limited facilities and will need to be sold to fund the Council's Capital Programme commitments, but it does provide a brief window of opportunity for the charity to find alternative premises.

The building will be used as a drop in venue, food bank, clothes bank and to provide hot meals for the homeless and vulnerable, as well as a meeting place for TESH.

A spokesperson for PATH said: “It’s very appropriate that, as part of the TESH collective, the Council has come to our rescue in the 11th hour. We are extremely relieved that our new premises are so close to Roebuck House, where people are used to accessing our services. PATH has a direct helpline number and I would encourage anyone who has any questions or concerns to contact us on 07763398238.”

Torbay Council’s Executive Lead for Adults, Councillor Julien Parrott, said: “I’m really pleased that we have been able to identify premises to help PATH continue its good work. The Council is committed to working with its partners to help the most vulnerable adults in our community.”

The Council’s Executive Lead with responsibility for Housing, Councillor Cindy Stocks, said: “PATH provides a worthwhile service and I am pleased we are able to help them continue the work they do to support people who need help during difficult times. We will continue to provide as much support as we can to help the charity find a more permanent solution.”