Cheshire East tackles homelessness across borough

Cheshire East Council has launched a consultation on its draft homelessness strategy today.

The launch of the consultation comes at a time when nationally there are unprecedented levels of homelessness, and these pressures are also being felt by many Cheshire East residents.

The council’s answer to this tough challenge is to take a more people focused approach. The emphasis of the council’s work will be on preventing homelessness before it occurs but also strengthening support for people who are already homeless. Cheshire East is acutely aware that the impacts of homelessness can have a profound impact on health and wellbeing.  

Councillor Michael Gorman, chair of Cheshire East Council’s economy and growth committee, said:

“Now is the right time to continue with a bold approach to reducing homelessness and rough sleeping. However, tackling homelessness is not something we can do alone. It requires strong collaboration across sectors and communities.

“It’s important to note, however, that this work has already started. As an example, the council has made significant progress in reducing rough sleeping in the south of the borough this year. 

“The Rough Sleeping Prevention Service, which is commissioned by the council and managed by YMCA Cheshire, launched in April and in its first four months offered accommodation to 79 individuals, with 19 already having successfully moved on to longer-term housing. A similar service for the north of the borough was launched last week and is also expected to deliver positive outcomes. 

“This draft strategy is building on that work and really focuses in on how we can collectively support people experiencing homelessness. We are doing some outstanding work in this area, and I thank the officers who have led on this, and who continue to do so much to support some of our most vulnerable residents.”

The council welcomes all opinions on its draft homelessness strategy and encourages people to have their say today.