A supported housing hostel in the city centre of St Albans celebrated its 10^th Anniversary on December 6, 2007.

 

Kent House, in New Kent Road, is a supported housing hostel comprising of 16 single bed-sits and 2 double bed-sits managed by Hightown Praetorian & Churches Housing Association. Kent House was opened in November 1997 after taking one year to construct on land provided by St Albans District Council.

 

Ten years ago, former St Albans Councillor, John Peters officially opened Kent House. To mark the 10^th Anniversary John was joined by the Deputy Mayor of St Albans Geoff Harrison, staff and residents from Kent House and Hightown Praetorian & Churches Housing Association and other guests involved in delivering supported housing and support advice in the district

 

Deputy Mayor of St Albans, Councillor Geoff Harrison, said: “Kent House is a superb example of partnership working to help people with a real housing need. The project acts as a stepping-stone for people looking to find permanent accommodation.

 

“Kent House is more than a hostel it also provides residents with the necessary support and care to empower them to move on to fully independent living. I would like to congratulate everyone involved in the running of Kent House.”

 

The hostel is built on three floors and each bed-sit comprises of furniture and en suite bathroom with shower. On the ground floor there is the staff office, a communal lounge, laundry room and disabled toilet. On all the floors are a number of shared kitchens, which consist of a freezer, cooker and microwave for residents to use.

 

Zoe Hunt, Kent House Team Leader, said: “Over the last 10 years we have provided accommodation and support for over 300 people. We are delighted to be celebrating our 10^th Anniversary and would like to thank everyone who has supported us over this time.

 

“Kent House supports, advises and aims to empower residents with the necessary social and life skills to move on to independent living. We aim to create a stable environment whereby residents can feel safe and confident to discuss their support needs. The entire process, the length of time to achieve success, varies from resident to resident.

 

“The success of Kent House is built around the relationship staff have with the residents. Everyone who works or lives at Kent House has the opportunity to get involved and influence how the hostel runs. We fully intend to keep up the good work and look forward to another successful 10 years.”