Housing Plus
Housing Plus and Glencore Coal have joined forces to construct a state-of-the-art emergency accommodation facility in Singleton for women and children fleeing domestic violence.
The Singleton refuge, to be operated by Upper Hunter Homeless Support, is designed with an innovative Core and Cluster model.
The Core and Cluster approach encourages independent living while providing on-site access to essential services, creating a holistic support system for survivors of domestic violence.
The refuge is funded through the New South Wales Government’s Core and Cluster Sector Capacity Building Grants program, supplemented by a $250,000 investment from Glencore Coal.
Construction of the Singleton facility is set to begin in 2025.
Supporting regional communities
Justin Cantelo, CEO of Housing Plus, emphasised the importance of regional communities benefiting from such funding and being actively involved in the delivery of local services.
"Housing Plus will construct and manage the property, while Upper Hunter Homeless Support will deliver the accommodation and services,” he said.
“Their decade-long experience in assisting local women and children will be invaluable for the community.”
An example of a Core and Cluster facility.
Craig Strudwick, Social Performance Manager at Glencore Coal, expressed pride in supporting this vital community initiative.
“Our Community Investment program is about creating long-term change by building capacity in the communities in which we operate, including in Singleton and Muswellbrook," he said.
“The new refuge will significantly enhance the accommodation options available in the Upper Hunter for women and children who have experienced domestic abuse, helping to support some of the most vulnerable people in our community.”
Mary Spora, General Manager of Upper Hunter Homeless Support (UHHS) added:
“UHHS is glad to see the need being met for purpose-built accommodation supporting women and children from the Singleton area who have experienced domestic abuse. Enabling people to stay safely connected to their community is essential for positive long-term outcomes.”