BCP receives Government funding help to end homelessness
The Council been given £9.2 million to better support rough sleepers
£9.2 million has been given to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council to help prevent homelessness and support rough sleepers through targeted interventions.
The funding will go towards accommodation, drug and alcohol treatment, recovery interventions and to support those at risk of sleeping on the street.
An additional £509,000 has been awarded to the council, for the remainder of this financial year, specifically to support those who are at risk of sleeping on the street.
Cllr Kieron Wilson, Portfolio Holder for Housing at BCP Council, said: “This level of funding is much welcomed, and works towards our ambition of ending homelessness and supports our vision of ensuring everyone has a safe place to call home.”
The multimillion-pound grant is set to enhance BCP Council’s ongoing commitment to early intervention and targeted preventative action.
The council has already increased its ambitious programme of acquiring new temporary homes and continues to work with partners to deliver long-term housing options for those at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness.
Cllr Wilson said: “Having a home is the foundation on which we all build our lives, and fundamental to health and wellbeing, that is why we will continue to work with partners across the region to support those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.”
The funding, provided by the Ministry for Housing, Communities & Local Government, is one of the highest allocations in the country - reflecting the positive work the Council has done to support those impacted by homelessness in recent years.
“We have already seen a 30% increase in our prevention outcomes in the last year, where we have kept more people in their homes, so this funding will ensure we can build on that work and provide positive outcomes through targeted interventions and early support,” Cllr Wilson said.
It is hoped the latest batch of government funding will continue to provide resources to help homeless people back into accommodation suitable for their needs.