Council tackles rough sleeping

The latest figures show that the number of people sleeping rough across Bedford Borough has decreased rapidly with only two residents recorded to be sleeping rough in the borough in 2021. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic Bedford Borough Council has deployed an 'Everyone In' approach to tackling homelessness and rough sleeping, whilst investing in purchasing more temporary accommodation and providing help and support for some of the most vulnerable residents in Bedford Borough.

Last week's Budget and Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee heard that this means that anyone found to be sleeping rough is offered temporary accommodation and support. The Council's approach, as set out Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy, builds on other successes including the opening of Roger's Court and securing £900,000 for 10 more units of accommodation.

Mayor Dave Hodgson said "The Council have been providing help and support for some of the most vulnerable and this is having a real impact. I've seen how beneficial a temporary room for the night can be to someone. It's important that we continue to work those who have been rough sleeping to ensure they are able to move into more permanent accommodation and receive the support they need."

The Council is working with partners to reduce the number of people sleeping rough, as well as decreasing the possible risks rough sleepers will encounter. Last year Roger's Court was opened providing 20 units of temporary accommodation and 24 hour on-site support. Most recently, the Council has secured £900,000 of funding to provide a further 10 units of accommodation.

The Council is also working with Bedford Homeless Partnership to identify residents who may be at risk of sleeping rough, and are currently sofa surfing, remaining in abusive households or staying with friends and family to offer additional help and support.

Mayor Dave continued "Our Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy brings together our successes in providing temporary accommodation and support for some of our most vulnerable residents. As the cost of living crisis worsens, it is important that we continue to support these people and others who may be in this position in the future."