Plans unveiled for emergency sleeping pods in Vale Douzaine car park
- Caritas Guernsey has submitted a planning application for two emergency sleeping pods.
- The pods aim to address homelessness and extreme housing insecurity in Guernsey.
- Designed by Amazing Grace Spaces, the pods are self-contained and off-grid.
- Caritas plans to support pod users in finding long-term accommodation.
- The Vale Douzaine has endorsed the initiative, stating it addresses local homelessness effectively.
Caritas Guernsey has filed a planning application to establish two emergency sleeping pods at the Vale Douzaine Room car park.
This initiative is a direct response to the increasing number of people facing homelessness and severe housing insecurity on the island.
The pods are developed by the UK-based charity Amazing Grace Spaces and are designed to provide safe, immediate, and dignified overnight shelter for those in need. Each pod is self-contained, featuring secure sleeping spaces, a toilet, solar power, and battery storage, enabling them to operate fully off-grid.
Above: example of sleeper pods in Sheffield. From Amazing Grace Spaces.
Chair of Caritas Guernsey, Graham Merfield, said: “These pods are not a final solution—they are a compassionate and practical step while we work towards building a community of modular homes in Guernsey. Until then, we cannot turn our backs on those sleeping rough. Everyone deserves shelter, safety, and dignity.”
Caritas intends to provide additional support for individuals using the pods, assisting them in finding long-term accommodation and accessing essential services.
The pods take about four to six weeks to build.
In the longer term, the charity envisions a supportive community that helps those experiencing homelessness, social exclusion, or insecure housing, including ex-offenders and individuals living in vehicles or temporary accommodations. It is currently searching for a suitable site on which to locate the project which will use modular housing.
The Vale Douzaine has expressed support for the pods, recognising the importance of this modest initiative located in a low-traffic area of their car park. The sleeping pods will occupy approximately the space of two parking bays.
“The Constables and Douzaine of the Vale believe this initiative is a valuable and meaningful response to homelessness in Guernsey,” the douzaine said in a statement.
“We fully support the project and are pleased that our grounds can be used to help provide immediate, practical support to those in need.”
Caritas is seeking volunteers from both individuals and local companies to assist with the cleaning and maintenance of the pods.
Anyone interested should email at volunteer@caritas.org.gg or contact them through social media.
Caritas is open to feedback on the proposal.
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