A CHARITY has opened five brand new flats to provide long-term affordable housing which aims to prevent homelessness.

On January 15, Reading Mayor Councillor Debs Edwards and Councillor Rachel Eden opened the one-bedroom flats which are available to people with 'housing needs'.

Launchpad Reading a homeless charity which provides temporary housing and supports 100 people has built its own accommodation for people to rent on a long-term basis.

The flats are part furnished, with a bedroom, bathroom, open plan sitting room, kitchen and dining. Largely economical with solar panels, triple glazing and are fitted with a smart energy system which automatically turns the heating off if the window is open.

As well as this, the flats have Wi-Fi, a bike shed and located 15 minutes from the town centre.

Ian Caren, Launchpad's chief executive said: "The main driver behind the move is the paucity of long-term, affordable housing in Reading.

"At Launchpad we help people who are at risk of becoming homeless, support them in getting back on their feet and ultimately move in to their own accommodation.

"In Reading, there is such as short supply of suitable homes. These flats will give five people a chance to have their own home where they can feel safe and secure. A right everybody deserves."

Donations from trusts and members of the Reading community raised money for the project.

Haslams Estate Agent held a charity Gala Ball in 2018 raising £100,000 and one coupe who wish to stay anonymous donated a massive £125,000.

Ian added: "We feel so humbled by the generosity and devotion we see from our supporters every day. Without them, we would have nothing. From items such as a buggy donated recently which has made a difference to a mother and her young child, to our fundraisers, donors and volunteers, we are extremely grateful.

" This is our first building project and we hope it to be the first of many. Over the next five years we will be looking for further viable opportunties to purchase land in order to build homes, particularly for families who are in desperate need of long-term accommodation."