£500,000 cash boost to help prevent homelessness

The funding comes as part of a £13.8 million commitment for the North West to help homeless people to improve their lives and get back on their feet

More than half a million pounds will be given to Rochdale Borough Council by the government to prevent people from falling into homelessness and sleeping rough on the streets.

The funding comes as part of a £13.8 million commitment for the North West to help homeless people to improve their lives and get back on their feet.

Councils can use the funding to employ specialists to provide practical advice to vulnerable people to help ensure they are meeting their rent payments, as well as helping them to find long-term stable accommodation.

Councillor Linda Robinson, assistant to the cabinet member for housing and planning at Rochdale Borough Council and chair of the Rochdale Borough Homelessness Forum, said: “We are aware of this additional funding and are currently putting a plan in place, in consultation with our partners and voluntary groups, to establish how best to use it.

“Any additional investment is always very welcome but does not make up for the years of budget reductions we have faced and continue to face.”

Homelessness Minister Luke Hall MP said: “It is not right that there are people in the North West who do not have a safe and secure place to live – some having to rely on the goodwill of friends for a roof over their head, or at worst face a night on the streets.

“This funding will give the North West’s local authorities the freedom to provide the services which work for local people in their areas and tackle the often-complex issues which lead to homelessness need specialist support.

“This government will ensure those at risk of homelessness and rough sleeping are supported and have somewhere safe to live.”