Stornoway has the only real concentration of homeless people in temporary accommodation with at least 20 individuals at any given time living in B@B accommodation with no provision for evening meals or kitchen facilities to cook for themselves. NHS Western Isles has recognised this situation has a direct health inequalities impact and has over the last 3 years established a meal provision supplement programme which supports the nutritional needs of this vulnerable group.

Community Projects based in Stornoway, the Salvation Army and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s Homeless Team are all involved in the scheme who provide vouchers to those who meet the criteria.

Comments from recent questionnaire reveal that the service is most appreciated and service users have voiced an opinion on the improvement of their health status, and include “It’s good to know that I won’t have to go hungry” and “This is a fantastic service and is really good for me”.  For further information please contact Tina Burgess, Senior Health Promotion Officer.