INTERVIEW
Francis McAllister is the CEO at Harrogate Homeless Project
HARROGATE HOMELESS PROJECT (HHP)
HHP provides people experiencing homelessness in the Harrogate District, with a safe place to stay and the support they need to build confidence, self-esteem and develop skills which will enable them to maintain a successful tenancy and independence. The project has five beds in No Second Night Out (a service for rough sleepers) a 16-bed hostel, and 11 beds helping clients to prepare to move onto their own tenancy.
A day centre provides lunch for clients, vulnerable people and/or people living in poverty in Harrogate as well as GP and health support. The Day Centre also offers facilities for clients to shower, get their clothes washed, have tea/coffee and socialise. The charity’s vision is to make sure nobody in the Harrogate District has to sleep rough and that those experiencing homelessness have all the support they need to move towards independent living. This is all done with the help and support of the people, business, churches, clubs and associations in Harrogate.
Local people volunteer in Harrogate Homeless Project, they donate clothing, food and money as well as organise and attend events which are raising essential income to continue work with homeless and vulnerable people.
Support at: harrogate-homelessproject.org.uk
Something in Yorkshire that makes you smile?
Driving past the American base on the back road to Pateley Bridge. The view of the Yorkshire Dales is breathtaking and always makes me smile. The colours are amazing – how vast are the Dales? – and being so close to nature.
A place you love to eat?
In Harrogate we are spoiled for amazing local places to eat. My favourite place is the Tannin Level in the centre of the town, going down the steps to the entrance, the ambience, excellent service and locally sourced food packed with flavour. The food is truly excellent and the experience great.
A place to take friends?
Scar House Reservoir is a must-visit. A bit of a drive, but it’s remote, wild and definitely worth the effort. In winter you think you will be blown away, it’s rugged, wild and spectacular. In summer, it’s quiet, no vehicles, a great walk, unbelievable scenery and even lambs in the fields. Of course, there is also the village that was submerged when the res
