Partnership steps up to ensure every rough sleeper has a place to stay by Christmas

Dorset Council and its partners are strengthening efforts to ensure every known rough sleeper in Dorset has access to safe accommodation by Christmas, as part of a coordinated programme designed to help people move away from life on the streets and into longer term housing.

A multi-agency Rough Sleeper Task Force has been established, bringing together housing, health, support services and voluntary sector organisations to assess needs, coordinate referrals and identify the most appropriate accommodation and support for each individual. Around 25 people are currently known to be sleeping rough across Dorset, with the highest numbers in Weymouth, Bridport and Lyme Regis.

A key element of the initiative will see The Bus Shelter recommission its double-decker bus at Weymouth Park and Ride as a night-time assessment hub. The lower deck will be used for assessments and support planning, while the upper deck will provide accommodation for up to six people. Dedicated support will be provided through local partners including the Lantern Trust and Alongside.

The council is also working with accommodation providers to secure bed and breakfast places for people with additional health needs or pets, while flexible accommodation options are being developed in other parts of the county.

Landlords are also being encouraged to work with the council through rent in advance and tenancy support schemes that help people move into sustainable private rented homes.

Councillors at last night’s (2 Nov) People and Health Overview committee were told the programme aims to combine emergency accommodation with long term housing solutions, including direct lets through the housing register and supported access to private rented homes. Dorset Council's objective is that every rough sleeper known to services is offered a safe route off the streets ahead of Christmas.

Councillor Gill Taylor, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Health and Housing, said:

"We welcome the Government's renewed commitment to ending homelessness and rough sleeping and are pleased that Dorset has secured funding to help deliver this important work. Dorset has consistently recorded some of the lowest levels of rough sleeping in the country, reflecting the dedication of our council teams and voluntary sector partners.

"Nobody should have to sleep rough. By working together with organisations including The Bus Shelter, Lantern Trust, Alongside, accommodation providers, landlords and support services, we are building on our strong track record and making sure people receive not just a bed for the night but the support they need to rebuild their lives and achieve a more secure future."

Dorset has been allocated additional Government funding to support delivery of the programme, with investment focused on accommodation, staffing and preventative activity. The current phase, Routes off the Street by Christmas, includes £1.1m of Government support, and forms the immediate priority for partners across Dorset.

Ends