A NEW homeless drop-in centre has opened to help people living on the streets or who are at risk of homelessness.

The centre, Basis@Sunderland, which was opened by charity Oasis Aquila Housing in Park Road Church, will provide short and long-term support to rough sleepers. Basis@Sunderland is open to any individual whatever their circumstances, and is run as a drop-in, with no referrals needed.

A spokesman said: “Whether it acts as simple as offering a cup of tea and a hot shower, or longer-term support with accessing housing and finding work, the charity aims to walk side by side with every individual and support them back into a home and a community.”

The centre became a reality after Oasis Aquila Housing received donations from several parties including Nationwide Building Society’s community grants programme managed by County Durham Community Foundation and the Sisters of Mercy in Sunderland.