EMERGENCY accommodation is desperately needed to help people who are sleeping rough in Inverclyde, says a street charity worker.

A volunteer street pastor is now calling on churches to get together to open a hall for those suddenly made homeless.

Frank Thompson, of Devol Avenue in Port Glasgow, believes a place where people can ‘get their head down for the night’ would help those in crisis.

His view comes following his experiences on the streets of Inverclyde as a Christian pastor.

Mr Thompson says the council is doing well providing accommodation for the homeless but thinks a short-term solution for those in immediate crisis is also required.

Frank, pictured, said: “I know the local authority are doing a wonderful job helping those who are in trouble.

“But we need a hall where someone can get their head down for the night before they are taken to social work the next day to get themselves sorted out.

“They need somewhere where they can get a sleeping bag and something to eat.

“There isn’t enough emergency accommodation to meet needs. It is the duty of the church to help.” While pounding the pavements Frank has come across three homeless people in dire circumstances in recent months.

They include a 60-year-old man who was found sleeping in the close of a high rise flat.

Residents had complained to authorities to get him removed from the building.

Mr Thompson said the man, who had just been released from prison, had nowhere to stay so had gone inside to escape bad weather.

He said: “We all need to feel safe, secure and fed.

“People in jail get a safe, warm cell and three hot meals a day. That doesn’t happen for a homeless person.

“Some people don’t want to help those who have a history from drink, drugs and mental health issues.

“But these people are not safe and don’t have a bed, washing facilities or three meals a day.” Frank, a parishioner at St Andrew’s in Port Glasgow, hopes that local churches will be able to act on his suggestion.

He said: “We must show compassion to those cold, hungry and tired people.” If you can help, call Mr Thompson on 07842 094591.