A COUNCILLOR is urging the county’s fire stations to open their doors to the homeless.

During a Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service meeting last week, Richard Udall, Labour councillor for St John’s and a member of the authority, asked that fire stations be opened up to rough sleepers, following the example of Greater Manchester Fire Service.

The project would seek to provide shelter to the county’s homeless community in extreme weather conditions.

Cllr Udall said: “Many of our fire stations are open and staffed 24 hours, when temperatures fall as they have done earlier this week we need to open our doors to help the homeless.

“We need to use all our resources to help the most vulnerable. If other fire authorities can help, so can Hereford and Worcester.”

He added: “We can’t ignore the tragedy that is unfolding on our streets, as an emergency service we need to help to provide emergency cover for those in most need.

“I hope the service will be able to work with homeless charities in order to provide emergency cover, sanctuary and warmth.I want the service to help us to prevent homeless people starting fires in order to keep warm, in essence it is not only an act of kindness but also an act of fire prevention. Once we have helped a person we can sign post them to other agencies who may be able to offer them more permanent help and advice.”

“We have the resources and we need to use them to help the homeless.

Chairman of Worcester’s Maggs Day Centre Mel Akers said: “You need to be aware that homeless people have numerous problems and you do need professional staff, it is not just a case of opening up the building. If they have paid staff and have factored in the money with that then that’s it’s very good.

“Sadly these days, many homeless people have mental health issues, addiction problems you need staff for guidance. You can have a mix of volunteers and staff- as we do at Maggs but you need some trained professionals.

“So I think my opinion at the moment is lukewarm.”

He added: “The old fire station building opposite Maggs has been empty for two years it would be good if it would be turned into accommodation for the homeless.”

The proposal will now be considered internally and is due to be discussed at a meeting next year.

This paper has approached Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service for comment.