A CASH injection of almost £2 million will be used to help tackle homelessness in Colchester over the next two years.
Colchester Council is hoping funding provided by the Government’s Homelessness Prevention Grant will help dozens of families into permanent accommodation.
A grant of £934,744 for the coming year, with £945,692 set to be delivered in 2024, will be used to “maintain and develop” services that prevent people from slipping into homelessness.
Julie Young, the council’s housing boss, said around 267 households live in temporary accommodation in the city.
“With a limited supply of affordable homes, this means families may have to wait more than three or four years for a permanent housing solution,” she said.
“We are continually looking to work with landlords in the private sector to secure an affordable alternative to temporary accommodation.”
She said grant funding from central Government has helped the council to develop a team of staff and partner organisations tasked with supporting people with “complex” issues.
It has also provided new housing.
Ms Young said the grant funding is “transitional” and will reduce after 2024/25.
“It will also support the costs associated with the implementation of the new landmark Domestic Abuse Act 2021," she said.
“We continue to work to prevent people from becoming homeless in the first instance, through interventions such as money and debt advice, remedial family intervention and mediation.
“Affordable housing in Colchester is in high demand, with many single people and families spending a high proportion of their income on rent.
“With reduction in available benefits and increasing household costs, there is an increasing risk of homelessness and hardship.”
Colchester MP and health minister Will Quince welcomed the investment.
He added: “The Government is determined to end rough sleeping and tackle homelessness because one homeless person is one homeless person too many.
“Colchester has a strong track record of working with healthcare and community outreach providers and this money will support Colchester Council with their important work.”
Any person at risk of becoming homeless can contact the council’s Housing Options team on 01206 580290.
Anyone concerned about someone they believe is sleeping rough can inform the council through the Streetlink app or via streetlink.org.uk.
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