Over £25 million to help vulnerable rough sleepers

More than £25 million of funding is to be allocated to over 100 areas across England to help fund 20 new rough sleeping centres.

Communities Secretary James Brokenshire said that the money, to be shared with 108 local authorities across the country, will be used to fund innovative local schemes aimed at supporting people off the streets and into stable accommodation where they can receive the tailored care they need.

The investment will include 20 new ‘Somewhere Safe to Stay’ rough sleeping centres, where people on the streets can access professional help and guidance, including immediate shelter and mental health support, as well as over 130 navigator posts – specialist support workers who direct people to the services they need, such as counselling, housing advice, mental health support or substance misuse services.

The 20 new rough sleeping centres builds upon the 11 announced in December last year, bringing the total to 31 – exceeding the commitment made in the Rough Sleeping Strategy. It also follows the confirmation of £46 million for councils over the next year to support people in their area off the streets and into secure accommodation where they can get the help they need to rebuild their lives.

Brokenshire said: “We are taking steps to ensure people never have to face even one night on the streets. These are vulnerable people, who may be dealing with complex mental health problems or addictions and require specialist support to tackle these issues and turn their lives around.

“The funding confirmed today will ensure those sleeping on the streets have access to the professional help and guidance they need to get back on their feet – taking us one step closer to ending rough sleeping for good.”