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Nine in 10 homeless people offered accommodation during pandemic, says government
More than 90% of rough sleepers in England have been offered accommodation as part of a government incentive to ensure all homeless people are housed during the coronavirus pandemic, the housing secretary has said.
Speaking at the government’s daily press conference on Saturday, housing secretary Robert Jenrick said: “I have been proud of the effort of councils to help vulnerable people in their areas, including securing safe accommodation for rough sleepers.
“And our plan to protect rough sleepers has resulted in over 90% being offered safe accommodation.
“I want to thank all those who have made this possible, including local councils, charities and other organisations and those continuing to help the small number of people still regrettably on our streets today.
“Of course, this is not the end of rough sleeping. And there is a great deal of work to be done and my departments and I will be at the heart of that.”
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At the end of last month, the government wrote to all local authorities in England ordering them to find accommodation for all rough sleepers during the coronavirus pandemic. Block booking hotels has been a key part of the housing efforts by local authorities.
According to the government, more than 5,400 people living on the streets or in hostels have now been moved into self-contained accommodation as a result of council work.
However, charities have warned that councils may experience a ‘second wave’ of individuals who require accommodation as more people become homeless during the pandemic.
During Saturday’s press conference, Mr Jenrick announced an additional £1.6bn in funding for local authorities to respond to the coronavirus pandemic.
The funding will be used by councils to provide vital services during the crisis, including adult social care, children’s and homelessness services.
Mr Jenrick said: “Today’s announcement of an additional £1.6bn of new funding to councils means we have now provided them with over £3.2bn during this pandemic.
“I promised local government would have the resources they need to meet this challenge and today demonstrates my commitment to doing just that.
“We stand shoulder to shoulder with local government and my priority is to make sure they are supported so they can continue to support their communities through this challenging time.”
