Award-winning program helps 160 rough sleepers in Tweed

MORE than 160 people have been supported into housing by Tweed Assertive Outreach since the pilot program was first rolled out in the Tweed Shire in 2019.

Funded by the State Government and delivered in the Tweed by Social Futures, Momentum Collective, NSW Department of Communities and Justice and NSW Health, Assertive Outreach is an evidence-based practice that helps people sleeping rough find pathways to long-term housing.

Tweed Heads was chosen as one of the first regional sites for the program due to its high rates of homelessness.

Social Futures chief executive Tony Davies said the extension of funding for the program, announced earlier this year, was a significant step forward.

“The Northern Rivers has over 35 per cent of the state’s rough sleepers but less than four per cent of the state’s population,” Mr Davies said.

“This vital program meets an ongoing need for support, and it delivers results for community members, with more than 90 per cent of people housed through the program maintaining their housing over the longer term.

“The program’s success is an excellent example of what can be achieved through collaboration.”

The intensive, evidence-based practice sees staff with expertise in complex case management proactively visit areas used by people who are experiencing homelessness.

A participant of Tweed Assertive Outreach, Darrell, said the program did great work.

“They came and picked me up, took my name, and asked me about my situation, you know, living rough,” he said.

“I don’t sleep in the gutter anymore. I don’t sleep in a park.

“I don’t have to look for somewhere to stay out of the rain, somewhere to get a shower or a feed, or to feel safe.

“The help they’re giving me, to get me back on my feet, to benefit me from here on in… Social Futures helps, mate. They’ve put me in the right direction.”

The Assertive Outreach model brings services to the individual, respectfully seeking to meet without intruding on their privacy, providing temporary accommodation and intensive casework to connect healthcare and employment services, and help rebuild family, community and cultural connections.

If you are experiencing homelessness call Link2Home 1800 152 152 or visit socialfutures.org.au/emergency.