A NEW outreach worker has been appointed to help get rough sleepers off the streets of Blackburn town centre.

Tylah Pierce, a former University Centre at Blackburn College student, has been given the role of supporting homeless and vulnerable people.

She will use her background in social science and psychology to work with them and provide those with alcohol and drug problems access to addiction services provided by Inspire.

The new 12-month Reach Worker role has been provided by specialist Brighton-based charity ‘Change,Grow, Live’ (CGL) and paid for by Blackburn with Darwen Council and Blackburn Business Improvement District from its levy on town centre shops and firms.

Ms Pierce will work closely with people with complex, multiple and high risk-needs and help them to engage with Inspire and borough support services. Her role builds on a drive by Blackburn with Darwen Council in October 2017 to encourage rough sleepers and beggars to quit the streets and provide them with permanent accommodation.

Ms Pierce aims to build bridges between businesses and people with multiple disadvantages, including homelessness, mental health, substance misuse or involvement in the criminal justice system.

A spokesman for CGL said: “Tylah will be providing community education to the businesses to support them in understanding the adversity these people face.

"The aim is to break down stigmas, increase understanding and give people the best chance of re-building their lives. In many cases, people with complex needs have given up on themselves, so the challenge is to empower them to access the help they need.

“Staff based at The Mall Shopping Centre have already received training on new psychoactive substances, such as synthetic cannabinoids sometimes called spice or black mamba. This has enabled staff to have a clearer understanding.”

Cllr Mustafa Desai, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s adult services boss, said: “This appointment is part of our ongoing efforts to engage people who need help and support - including those at risk of homelessness, rough sleeping and begging in Blackburn town centre.

“CGL have particular skills in working with those with underlying substance misuse concerns which will complement the work of the existing Street Navigator Team. Together we can really help them get their lives back on track.

“In Blackburn with Darwen we have a commitment that no person needs to sleep rough with a bed for anyone who needs it.”