A HEREFORD hotel will soon turn into a hub for the homeless as a charity works to stop "putting a sticky plaster on an old wound".

Vennture, a Christian charity in Hereford, will be transforming Commercial Road's Merton Hotel into a secure place for rough sleepers, and those in need, where they can seek advice and guidance to other services.

People will be met with wrap-around support to heal a "wound".

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So far, those sleeping on the street have been given shelter for the coldest winter months, but when it comes to summer they are put back on the streets, said a spokesperson for Vennture.

Vennture volunteers start work at the Merton Hotel in Hereford.

Vennture volunteers start work at the Merton Hotel in Hereford.

This is "putting a sticky plaster on an old wound," said the spokesperson.

Vennture wants to stop this from happening each year, and instead help people to find a long-term plan and solution.

Vennture volunteers start work at the Merton Hotel in Hereford.

Vennture volunteers start work at the Merton Hotel in Hereford.

As part of the initiative, the Vennture team will work with local food banks, charities, faith groups, retailers and businesses, police, and CCTV to identify anyone presenting as homeless.

From December 5, there will be a friendly hub in the Merton Hotel between Monday to Friday 11am and 1pm where people can check-in.

Vennture volunteers start work at the Merton Hotel in Hereford.

Vennture volunteers start work at the Merton Hotel in Hereford.

As a last resort, as part of the Transformation Grant, Vennture will also have access to seven safe, warm, well-supervised rooms for the night.

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The charity is aware of 25 to 30 homeless people in Hereford, that it hopes to work with, but expects more people will need help this winter, said the spokesperson.

It is currently working with Herefordshire Council and the NHS and hopes for the organisation's continued support.

Vennture volunteers start work at the Merton Hotel in Hereford.

Vennture volunteers start work at the Merton Hotel in Hereford.

The term "homeless shelter" has scary connotations, and many rough sleepers the charity works with won't use one, said the spokesperson.

Each room in the hotel, used for emergency situations, will be for single occupancy.

Trained night wardens will be aware of risks, provide a higher duty of care, be medically trained (in both physical and mental health), and have de-escalation training.

Vennture volunteers start work at the Merton Hotel in Hereford.

Vennture volunteers start work at the Merton Hotel in Hereford.

Two wardens will be on shift a night, most of which have been outsourced but some are from within Vennture.

The hub will be a place for people to feel safe, warm, and connected.

The charity's team will be a guide to prevent new homelessness and cure the old, said the spokesperson.

On Christmas Day, the hub will be open and Vennture will be linking with other charities also working, such as the Salvation Army.

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