A HOMELESS charity has been given the keys to move into a vacant office in Slough’s Queensmere shopping centre rent-free.

The London and Slough Run, which works to reduce homelessness in the area and provides support to vulnerable individuals, will temporarily set up new operations at Dukes House.

The group will move in later this summer where volunteers will continue to repackage and distribute food and goods for rough sleepers and couch surfers.

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British Land, asset and development manager for the Queensmere and Observatory shopping centres, gave the empty offices rent-free to the support group.

In addition, The London and Slough Run plan to use the ground floor of the building as a furniture repair workshop, with skilled volunteers – including the formerly homeless – providing carpentry training to those in need. The proceeds from the resale of furniture will support further community assistance.

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The trustee of The London and Slough Run and Chairman of the Slough Homeless Forum, Malcolm Johnstone, said:

‘We are grateful to British Land, asset and development manager of the Queensmere & Observatory shopping centres, for supporting the work of The London and Slough Run. Our new base in Dukes House will enable us to package and distribute essential supplies and provide valuable skill-based training to the homeless across Slough. We look forward to working together with the team to make a positive impact in the local community.’

More empty spaces could be filled by community or voluntary groups until developers announce major redevelopment plans for both shopping centres.