New funding worth nearly £3 million to help rough sleepers and tackle homelessness in Shropshire

Shropshire Council has been awarded significant funding from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) to support homelessness prevention and rough sleeping services for the next financial year.

The funding, totalling £2,855,330, is part of the government’s broader initiative to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping across the UK and a continuation of previous funding streams.

A homelessness prevention grant makes up £1.55m, while almost £400k is a rough sleeping prevention and recovery grant and just over £900k is a rough sleeping drug and alcohol treatment grant.

Councillor Dean Carroll, cabinet member for housing and assets said: “Shropshire Council welcomes the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Grant Funding announced yesterday by the MHCLG. This announcement confirms that the services currently funded can be maintained.

“Shropshire has seen a big increase in presentations as homeless. Rising demand has come off the back of the Covid pandemic and the cost of living crisis, which have led to severe pressures on household incomes, family relationships and individuals’ mental health.

“We remain committed to tackling all forms of homelessness and look forward to utilising this funding to make a significant impact in the community.”

Councillor Cecilia Motley, cabinet member for adult social care and public health added: “Individuals experiencing rough sleeping and substance misuse issues often face challenges in accessing appropriate services, resulting in deteriorating health conditions.

“The Rough Sleeping Drug and Alcohol Treatment Grant will support the county in meeting the intended outcomes of the national drug strategy by helping to reduce drug-related deaths, reducing alcohol-related hospital admissions and increasing the number of successful individuals in treatment.

“Through this funding, we can continue to collaborate with partners to provide enhanced support to rough sleepers and those at risk.”