Milton Keynes Labour have said that since their new strategy for handling rough sleeping went live last April, over 100 people in the city have been assisted.
As well as over 100 rough sleepers obtaining accommodation as of Friday 11 January 2019, the party also says that around a further 70 rough sleepers are in temporary accommodation pending rehousing with support.
Cllr Nigel Long, Cabinet member for Housing and Regeneration, said: “We set out to address the challenge of rough sleepers. They are a diverse group and many have mental health or other health related problems. The people range from those unable to maintain tenancies due to mental health challenges, to ex service personnel, to people with drug and alcohol problems."
"The securing of accommodation for 100 vulnerable people with support is good news. It highlights are commitment to tackling rough sleeping. Remember we are committed to ending rough sleeping by 2020. So we are making good progress.”
“It is pointless providing accommodation if people cannot sustain that home. That is why putting in place help and support for each person is central to the long term success of keeping that person housed and off the streets. Strong partnership working with both the Housing First initiative and the Rough Sleeper Initiative has been key to the progress in tackling rough sleeping."
“Labour led Milton Keynes Council offers accommodation, help and support to any rough sleeper in Milton Keynes if they need it. We will continue to work with the remaining rough sleepers, especially those with severe medical and mental health challenges so that they can find long term housing with support. We will end rough sleeping fully by 2020.”
