A new five year “Homeless and Rough Sleeping Strategy” has been announced by Kingston Council intended to launch later this year.
The new strategy aims to both prevent homelessness in Kingston and support families and individuals who are homeless or are facing homelessness.
Kingston Council said: “The Covid 19 pandemic has transformed our services for homeless households and rough sleepers. We have a legal duty to do all we can to prevent homelessness and to make sure we can support families and individuals who may be homeless or threatened with homelessness.”
Following the announcement of the new plan the council have called upon the public for their opinions on the strategy and how it can be improved further. The council have published a draft copy of the strategy as well as an online survey.
Figures published by the council state that over 80 individuals were sleeping rough in Kingston Upon Thames last year.
The council received over £1.5 million for their 2021/2022 Homeless Prevention Grant which will be used to fund temporary accommodation for individuals and families, reducing the use of unsuitable accommodation and support for those threatened or affected by homelessness.
Kingston Council added: “We have risen to the challenge placed upon us to ensure there was a swift and effective response to find accommodation for rough sleepers and to continue to provide services for households threatened with homelessness.”
The strategy will pay particular regard to supporting individuals with drug, alcohol and mental health issues, as well as those suffering from domestic abuse.
The strategy, due to end in 2027, also aims to end all rough sleeping in Kingston by 2024. The survey will be open until March 11.
To take part in the survey visit the Homeless Strategy homepage.
