The Government has unveiled £105 million to combat rough sleeping. The funding will be used to support rough sleepers and those at risk of homelessness into tenancies of their own, including through help with deposits for accommodation, and securing thousands of alternative rooms already available and ready for use, such as student accommodation.
Responding to the announcement Denise Hatton, Chief Executive, YMCA England & Wales said:
“YMCA wholeheartedly support today’s announcement from the Government and it gives us confidence that they are committed to ending rough sleeping. YMCA has frequently highlighted that one element which must be addressed when combatting homeless is securing rental deposits and move-on accommodation.
“This is too often an insurmountable barrier for those wishing to move beyond homelessness, and the focus of this funding approach is welcomed. We look forward to working with and supporting the Government’s ambition and roll out. Through all of the chaos and sadness that COVID-19 has caused, it has also provided us with a once in a lifetime opportunity to stamp out rough sleeping. We cannot let this slip by and the Government has rightly prioritised it.”
Across England and Wales YMCAs provide a home for more than 18,000 people experiencing homelessness every year. Our philosophy of supporting young people holistically means we provide not only a bed but also help a young person gain the training, skills and confidence to go on to lead independent lives.
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