Council corrects Audit Commission

Bromsgrove District Council would like to stress that the recent statement made in the CAA Organisation Assessment document that refers to the Foyer Project as ‘a hostel for young people to move into straight from prison’ is incorrect and misleading.

Council Chief Executive Kevin Dicks said: “The Foyer Project is much needed supported housing scheme to promote independence for younger people from all walks of life.  The Foyer will not be a hostel and is not a project targeted at ex-offenders.

“We want to reaffirm the assurances that were given to local residents during consultation prior to it being given planning permission.

“This was as follows: ‘As is the case with tenants or owner occupiers of any dwelling, it is possible that some residents living in the accommodation may have offended in the past. Whether this is the case or not, before individual residents can be allocated a place in the scheme they will have to demonstrate a commitment or have changed their lifestyle and are committed to education, employment or training because this foyer is for people who are on the road to independence and not for those who have high-level support needs.’

“We have asked the Audit Commission to amend their report as it does not accurately describe the nature of the Foyer.

“So, we would like to apologise for any misunderstanding and upset caused as a result of this statement being issued.”