District Councils’ Network responds to PAC report on housing people sleeping rough during the pandemic

Responding to a report by the Public Accounts Committee on accommodating rough sleepers during the COVID-19 pandemic, Cllr Giles Archibald, District Councils’ Network Better Lives spokesperson, said:

“District councils have worked hard throughout the pandemic to provide a roof over the head of those experiencing homelessness and it is a testament to that hard work that we have seen a reduction in the number of people sleeping rough.

“However this report reveals the scale of the challenge the nation faces tackling rough sleeping, and it is vital we recognise this as we come out of the pandemic.

“Councils will continue to work with rough sleepers in their communities to provide them with accommodation, and are working with partners to ensure they receive their vaccination against COVID-19.

“Councils want to end homelessness by preventing it in the first place. As we look to the future this will need investment in secure and affordable housing, wrap around mental health and addiction support as well as help people succeed in work and training. This could make a real difference to transforming the life chances of those most in need in our communities.”