MP calls on government to do more to tackle homelessness issue - The Solihull Observer

MP calls on government to do more to tackle homelessness issue

Solihull Editorial 1st Sep, 2016 Updated: 21st Oct, 2016   0

SOLIHULL MP Julian Knight has called on the government to create a comprehensive new strategy in an attempt to tackle the rising levels of homelessness.

A new report from the Communities and Local Government Select Committee, on which he sits, argues despite some support to homeless people, not enough homeless people are receiving the support and help they need.

The committee wants the government to identify councils which are not properly performing their duties towards the homeless and create new legal obligations towards groups such as single people who often receive poor care at present.

It also argues the link between homelessness, housing benefit, and the availability of social and private housing stock should be investigated, and adjustments made to make it easier to house vulnerable people.




Mr Knight and his fellow committee members have also taken the unusual step of sponsoring a Bill, the ‘Homelessness Reduction Bill’, based on their findings.

Mr Knight said: “It is now widely accepted that housing is at the root of so much of the social injustice in Britain today.


“The impact of soaring prices on the younger generation is much discussed, but we must never forget the more serious problem of people who are priced not just out of home ownership, but out of doors altogether.

“The Government must do more to make sure people sleeping rough receive both the immediate support they need, and the longer-term prospects of secure accommodation they deserve.

“I and my fellow committee members look forward to working with ministers to make sure they do.”

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