Anyone curious to learn about the help available for rough sleepers is invited to an open day at Torbay’s homeless hostel.

Staff at the council-owned Leonard Stocks Centre, in Factory Row, Torquay, will be speaking to the community about their work on Monday 19 October outside the hostel.

They’ll be joined by partners from organisations offering support, including Torbay Recovery Initiatives, our rough sleeping team and town centre officers, StreetVet, the Friends of Factory Row, the police and more.

The informal drop-in event runs from 11am to 2pm in the parking area outside the hostel and hot drinks and pulled pork rolls will be available.

Councillor Hayley Tranter, Cabinet Member for Adult and Community Services, Public Health and Inequalities, said: “The event is an opportunity to open up the work of the hostel and partner organisations to the wider community.

“We want to break down myths and misconceptions surrounding the hostel and the people who use our services and show the positive work taking place every day.

“It would be easy to tell people what we do, but this event is a chance for the community to find out for themselves how organisations are pulling together to make lives better for vulnerable people who have experienced challenging circumstances in their lives.

“We’d particularly love to speak to local residents and businesses, community groups and people who are street attached or experiencing homelessness.

“We hope some open and honest conversations can take place which will lead to us building better relationships with the people we support and the wider community.

“It will also be a good opportunity for people to learn where they, a friend or family member can access help if needed.”

A former Leonard Stocks resident said: “The hostel has helped me in every way. I get along with all the staff and am forever grateful for the help they have given me while doing their jobs with no judgement and with empathy. 

“They have become a huge pillar of support in my life even to today, and when I need help it's done with a genuine smile. If I have no winter coat and need one, they will make sure I'm not cold. 

“They support with small and important aspect of people's lives. Even now my dad is poorly, they support me when I struggle to visit him. I can't put into words how grateful I am to them.”

The Leonard Stocks Centre offers single occupancy accommodation and provides a safe and supportive environment where people can begin to address the challenges that have contributed to their homelessness.

It’s a pathway away from rough sleeping and towards long-term housing and independence.

Residents regularly take part in enrichment activities, including swimming and forest walks. Some have recently completed first aid training.

Find out more about the Leonard Stocks Centre