‘The best step I ever took’: Safe Space report reveals positive impact for Hobart’s homeless

John Plumstead says he and his dog Pippa have been given a new start at Safe Space, a program recently reported to have had a “significant impact” on Hobart’s homeless landscape.

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JOHN Plumstead has said he and his dog Pippa have been given a new start at Safe Space, a program recently reported to have had a “significant impact” on Hobart’s homeless landscape.

The former Geeveston local said he and his daughter Stephanie Plumstead accessed the Safe Space program for accommodation, food and various services for nearly three months.

“It’s the best step I ever took – getting out of the country where people were [taking advantage of] me,” he said.

Mr Plumstead has recently found new accommodation in South Hobart while his daughter continues accessing Safe Space.

“That place was my stepping stone,” he said.

Mr Plumstead said he had made “great friends” at Safe Space, with some also moving into new homes.

John Plumstead with 11 year old dog, Pippa as he has spent time at the safe night space and successfully moved on to be living in a house in South Hobart. Picture: Zak Simmonds

He said he hoped the program would implement more mental health services.

A new report reviewing the first six months of the Safe Night Space pilot program since December 2019 has revealed it was “highly successful” in connecting homeless people with key services.

157 individuals spent over 1,666 bed nights at the Youth ARC space, with every client linking into Housing Connect.

Hobart City Mission CEO John Stubley said the now 24-hour program provided 38 support services to clients.

He said he hoped their success would prompt local a long-term funding commitment from the government beyond December this year.

“There is an ongoing need for this sort of support program for the homeless,” he said.

Mr Stubley said he was confident the new Launceston and Burnie Safe Spaces would bring the same successful outcome.