New lockers have been installed for people experiencing homelessness in Aberystwyth at a solutions office managed by The Wallich, Wales’ leading homelessness charity.

Having to carry treasured belongings around all day can be tiresome and dangerous for people experiencing homelessness.

Installing lockers, which are new, roomy and free to use, in Aberystwyth will mean that people sleeping rough are assured that their possessions are safe, and they can focus and getting the support they need.

The six secure purple lockers were purchased with money from Ceredigion County Council to increase provision for rough-sleepers in the area.

Jack, 56, expressed happiness about the new lockers being installed: “Having been semi-permanently homeless since May 2008, one of the biggest issues I have found is being able to have clean, dry clothes and sleeping gear.

“In the past, I have used the 20p lockers at the leisure centre in Aberystwyth and in other areas, but these are only available during their very limited opening hours, so they aren’t practical for me to use.

“These Wallich lockers are readily available and large enough to store all the stuff I need so I can kit myself out for a couple of days, knowing I have clean, dry stuff whatever happens.

“Over this winter, the lockers have made the difference between ‘just getting by’ and feeling happy to know that I have got what I need.”

Anyone who needs to make use of the lockers can do so by contacting The Wallich Ceredigion Solutions Service on 01970 611832 or 07967 595324, by email at [email protected] or by calling into the office on Chalybeate St, Aberystwyth.

See this week's south papers for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition tomorrow