Southampton City Council to share in new Government fund to help tackle homelessness

Southampton City Council will benefit from the announcement of a £84 million fund for local authorities across England to support homelessness and rough sleeping services

The funding, from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) comes at a critical time of year. As winter approaches and temperatures fall rapidly, individuals who are sleeping rough will require even more support from services in the city.

Councillor Andy Frampton, Cabinet Member for Housing at Southampton City Council said:
"This additional investment is very welcome news and will help to strengthen the work that is already taking place in Southampton to prevent homelessness, support those at risk, and help people move away from rough sleeping.

"Tackling homelessness remains one of the most pressing challenges we face as a city. This funding will allow us to continue building on our partnerships with charities, health services and community organisations to deliver lasting solutions and ensure that everyone has a safe place to call home."

The council will be working with Government and local partners to ensure that the funding will be properly directed to where it will make the greatest difference for those who need it the most.

The funding was announced to coincide with World Homelessness Day, marked every year on 10 October. The day marks an opportunity for communities around the globe to reflect on homelessness, both locally and internationally. 

For residents who are concerned about someone sleeping rough in Southampton, they can contact StreetLink, a service that connects people sleeping rough with local support.