£55k boost for homelessness services in Test Valley
Homelessness services in Test Valley are set to receive a £55k boost in 2021 thanks to Test Valley Borough Council.
The money comes from the authority’s Flexible Homelessness Support Grant provided by central government, and includes £10k towards maintaining a local outreach service and £45k funding for the supported housing provision at Bridge House in Andover, both run by Two Saints.
At a cabinet meeting on 4 November, council chiefs unanimously backed providing funding for the next financial year.
Portfolio holder for housing and environmental health, councillor Phil Bundy, said: “We know all too well how valuable these services are to those who need them. And in the midst of a global pandemic it is more important than ever before that we support those at risk.
“These services can transform people’s lives and help to get them off the street. It’s so easy to take for granted having a roof over your head but the consequences of losing your home can have a catastrophic impact on people’s mental and physical health. These are some of the most vulnerable individuals in our society and we will continue to do everything in our power to support them.”
In recent years, TVBC has invested tens of thousands of pounds in local homelessness services and has outlined its commitment to ensuring that no one who lives in the borough who faces sleeping rough will leave the council offices without first receiving an offer of emergency accommodation.
The council has also changed the way it works with people to prevent and relieve homelessness by focusing on their strengths and aspirations and working across partnerships to try to address the underlying issues that have led to the person losing their home.
Anyone concerned about their housing situation can contact the council’s housing service on 01264 368000 or 01794 527700. People can also report rough sleeping to the council through streetlink.org.uk