Over £17 million in government funding has been allocated to assist hundreds of rough sleepers in finding long-term housing solutions as the harsh winter weather takes hold. This initiative aims to provide additional bed spaces in areas with the highest need, facilitating the transition of individuals from the streets to secure accommodation.
Commenting on the importance of this funding, Sherrelle Collman, Managing Director of Caridon Foundation, emphasises, “This significant allocation of funds is a crucial step towards addressing the urgent issue of homelessness. By prioritizing long-term solutions and investing in local authorities, we are not only providing immediate relief for those sleeping rough but also laying the groundwork for sustainable support systems.”
Key beneficiaries of this funding include London boroughs such as Hammersmith, Lambeth, and Greenwich, which collectively received over £3 million. Additionally, Nottingham City Council, Bristol City Council, and Hastings & Eastbourne Borough Councils received substantial allocations to bolster their efforts in tackling rough sleeping.
This funding injection contributes to the Rough Sleeping Initiative, bringing the total funding to over £547 million. It is part of a comprehensive support package backed by over £2 billion of government funding over three years. It encompass initiatives to assist individuals in finding employment, managing finances, and accessing essential healthcare services.
Recognising the heightened risk faced by rough sleepers during the winter period, an additional £4 million has been allocated to local authorities experiencing the most significant pressures in addressing rough sleeping across England.
To further support this initiative, the StreetLink campaign enables members of the public to alert local council outreach workers when they encounter someone sleeping rough. Simplified processes, facilitated by government investment, make it easier than ever for individuals to assist in connecting rough sleepers with essential services and safe accommodation. See more here: StreetLink – Connecting people sleeping rough to local services (thestreetlink.org.uk)