Helping local rough sleepers
We work with Spring Housing Association to provide a rough sleeper outreach service.
When we receive reports of rough sleepers, our outreach team visits the last known location within 24 hours and speaks to the person to offer them support and accommodation options. The team has access to a network of supported accommodation, and we often accommodate rough sleepers in this way.
In addition, we own six housing pathway scheme properties, which are allocated to former rough sleepers and those in danger of rough sleeping. Through our partner Spring Housing Association, we provide ongoing tailored support to people living in the properties to help them manage their tenancies. Residents are also signposted to other services, such as mental health and substance abuse support. We’ve had real success through this programme, with a number of individuals maintaining successful tenancies as part of the scheme.
If you know of someone who is sleeping rough, and is in need of assistance, you can report it through Street link which is a funded service directing people who are rough sleeping to local services. Alternatively, you can call the housing options team on 01543 308000 or outside of office hours call 01527 406643.
All rough sleepers are offered help and support, and during severe weather are offered a place to stay regardless of their situation, however it is up to the individual as to whether they accept this offer of help, and not everyone does. Out outreach team will however continue to offer advice and assistance to all rough sleepers, in the hope that one day help will be accepted.