Councils secure funding to help rough sleepers

East Hampshire District Council and Havant Borough Council have been successful in securing further funding to end rough sleeping within the two areas.

The total amount being awarded for the next year across the two authorities is £92,774, after a successful joint bid to the government's Rough Sleeping Initiative.

The successful bid includes funds to employ two outreach workers across the both areas and a part time role that will secure accommodation.

The outreach workers will work closely with housing teams to deliver support and assistance to rough sleepers and those at risk of rough sleeping. They can help with access to homelessness provisions such as night shelters and specialist support services that can help with the journey to independent living.

The accommodation post will specifically work with private landlords and letting agents to ensure that there is accommodation available for those who have found themselves without secure accommodation.

In addition to these roles, money is also available for a personalisation fund. This can be used to purchase mobile phones, apply for ID documents or pay for deposits and rent in advance.

This funding will ensure that the actions and targets identified in the Homelessness and Rough Sleeper Strategies for both councils can be completed.

Cllr Julie Butler, East Hampshire District Council Deputy Leader and portfolio holder for welfare and community integration, said: “In East Hampshire, figures for rough sleeping are low compared to other areas, but we are still fully committed to halving the number of rough sleepers by 2021 and ending rough sleeping by 2027.

“The support service will also work with those who are at risk of rough sleeping to ensure that they do not end up on street.”

Deputy Leader for Havant Borough Council and cabinet lead for planning, regeneration and communities, Councillor Tim Pike added “This money will enhance the work we already do to tackle street homelessness in our borough by allowing us to offer much more targeted and intensive support to some of the most disadvantaged people living in our community.

“Making a difference to the support we can offer people in this way is one of the biggest responsibilities we have and working with our partners, Two Saints, we will use this funding to improve the lives of those who need our help the most.”

If you, or anyone you know is homeless or sleeping rough, information and help is available here.