THE number of people sleeping rough has plummeted since the opening of a homeless unit in Taunton in December.

Norie House, run by Taunton Association for the Homeless and supported by Taunton Deane Council, has been used by 24 people.

It provides basic accommodation for rough sleepers as well as seven ‘move-on’ bedsits.

The average age of residents – most who have found alternative accommodation – is around 30, with the youngest 19 and the oldest 70.

The project – the first of its kind in Somerset – is being hailed a success and an example of successful partnership working.

Norie House was set up after regular meetings between interested organisations, including the police, homeless charities and drug and alcohol groups.

TAH managing director John Shipley said: “Without those meetings, and the care that went into planning everything, the project wouldn’t have worked as well.

“The relationship with the police, in particular, has been really positive and extremely valuable.”

Officers often drop into Norie House to chat to residents and staff, building trust and a strong rapport.

Sgt Andy Murphy said: “It’s reassuring that those within our community who find themselves homeless and struggling for help, now have a location to link into.”

The project was supported by a £250,000 Government grant to transform the old premises into a unit with six bed spaces for rough sleepers and seven self-catering move-on units.

Norie House - formerly East Cottage – is named after the late James Norie, a former TAH resident.