Reading’s leading homelessness charity has launched two new projects to provide support to rough sleepers across the town.

‘The Nova Projects’ and ‘The Pods’ are concepts thought up by Reading Borough Council to tackle the problem that often affects people with severe and multiple needs.

These two projects help provide short-term accommodation and intensive support to help them with their goals and gain stability.

Janine Breakspear, Launchpad’s Head of Services said: “Our staff and trustees are delighted that Launchpad have been awarded these projects. They are both a natural extension of the existing work we do, using the passion and expertise which we know has real impact and improves people’s lives.”

The Nova project is a specialist service for women, established in 2021 by Reading Borough Council, in response to an identified need. It provides a home for 10 multiply disadvantaged women in a gender and trauma-informed supported environment.

The Pods are self-contained modular homes in Reading established in 2021, providing wrap around care for 40 people who have been found sleeping rough and have complex needs.