A HOMELESS hub in Leigh has opened.

The base has opened its overnight accommodation allowing referred rough sleepers to access the emergency beds and support services seven days a week.

The hub involves a partnership between Wigan Council, charities and other agencies to provide bespoke support and offer personalised help.

There will be further services offered at the site in the coming months with an official launch in October.

Cllr Terry Halliwell, cabinet member for housing and reform at the council, said: “This is an important part of our new approach to addressing rough sleeping and is a really exciting development that brings together many services and community providers so we fully understand the circumstances of every individual.

“This will ensure they receive the best possible support and ultimately, end the need for them to rough sleep.”

A second hub in Wigan is in the early stages of planning and development.

The local authority also provides support to homeless support groups through The Deal for Communities Investment Fund.

Investment into homelessness provision, including borough wide outreach service which will operate out of hours and weekends, has been pledged.

More emergency access beds are set to be available too.

Volunteers have also been recruited by Wigan Council to become Homeless Champions to check in with rough sleepers and signpost them to support.

If you see a homeless person, email roughsleep@wigan.gov.uk with as much information as possible including their location. You will also receive an update on the situation.

Alternatively, contact the out of hours team on 01942 828777.