In Launceston, a homelessness charity called Strike It Out made a noble effort to address the issue of homelessness by purchasing seven sleeping pods for temporary accommodation. The founder, Kirsten Ritchie, aimed to offer a safe place for people experiencing homelessness to sleep at night while also providing access to essential services like TAFE Tasmania courses and counseling. However, the sleeping pods, equipped with lockers and powered by solar panels, are currently unutilized as they await a suitable location to be set up.
Despite Strike It Out's proactive approach and efforts to communicate with the Launceston City Council for over two years, the sleeping pod project is facing red tape and barriers. The council has requested detailed written proposals, including comprehensive risk assessments, to consider the project for potential sites, with safety being a primary concern. Even though Strike It Out has submitted formal proposals and implemented risk mitigation strategies such as site managers and security measures, the project has not been able to progress due to challenges in finding a suitable location.
While the charity and the council engage in discussions and assessments, people like Greg Davy, who have experienced homelessness firsthand, stress the urgency and importance of the sleeping pod project. With the approach of winter, the need for secure and warm housing becomes critical for those on the streets. The delays in launching the project have left individuals like Mr. Davy disappointed, as they believe that having access to the sleeping pods would make a significant difference in the lives of those facing the harsh realities of homelessness.