Hub leads pet-friendly policy push

A Newcastle homelessness support hub is helping shape national policy through its inclusive approach to people and their pets.

The Joseph Cowen Centre, owned and operated by Tyne Housing, is being highlighted as an example of best practice in research by IMPACT, which is developing new policy guidance around pet inclusion.

The centre, run in partnership with the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board and Newcastle City Council, provides a drop-in wellbeing hub for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Visitors can access primary healthcare and support services, even if they are sleeping rough, without a home or not registered with a GP.

Unlike many services, the centre welcomes pets, with the Tyne Wellbeing Team providing water, treats and a safe space for four-legged companions.

Researchers have spoken to people using the centre, as well as staff including emotional resilience officer Alex Anderson, to understand how pet-friendly support can remove barriers.

The findings will help inform national guidance for local authorities, health services and housing providers.

Alex said: “For many people experiencing homelessness, having a pet can be a real source of comfort and connection, as well as giving them responsibility that can provide a vital sense of purpose. 

“Pets can be like a social prescription for many people.

“But, in lots of cases, services – more often than not, inadvertently – create barriers for people with pets, that mean they cannot secure the support they need, whether that be restrictions on housing or access to healthcare services.

“Many of the people I support at Tyne talk about their pets being the reason they get up in the morning.  

“Their pet might be the only contact they get all day. 

“There are so many instances where pet ownership is a hugely positive thing for people experiencing homelessness, so we should be doing all we can as service providers to ensure that’s possible – to remove the blockers that mean people with pets are disadvantaged. 

“And, of course, part of our commitment is to champion animal wellbeing, ensuring we promote positive pet care to visitors, to ensure pets have happy, healthy lives they deserve too.”

Alex added: “I hope this piece of work has national impact. 

“There are plenty of places and organisations that want to support people experiencing homelessness but do so without really hearing their voices and knowing what matters to them. 

“For so many people, their pets really are their family and their friends, and I hope – by showing what’s possible – we can help people across the UK get to a better place, with their pets too.”

The guidance is expected to be developed over the coming months.

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