SOLIHULL has fewer rough sleepers than other West Midlands towns, but support is readily on hand for anyone forced into homelessness this Christmas, the council says.
People’s circumstances can change, particularly during the festive period and with the exception of Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day the town’s outreach workers will continue to check the streets.
Deputy leader and cabinet member for adult social care and health, coun Karen Grinsell, said: “In Solihull there are usually between two and six people who regularly sleep rough and the Council is in regular contact with them.
“However there are many people who are homeless and at risk of sleeping rough. We also know from experience that over the festive period more people find themselves homeless through no fault of their own and for a variety of reasons.
“Throughout the Christmas period, out of hours arrangements will be in place for people who find themselves homeless and in need of emergency temporary accommodation.
“With the exception of Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, our outreach team will continue to check the streets for rough sleepers and support them. People can also continue to report and refer rough sleepers via StreetLink which is available 24/7.
“Finally, I would like to encourage people to support our homeless charity – Change into Action – which provides additional support for local homeless people. Donations can be made online at any time.”
To request advice and assistance if faced with homelessness and in need of emergency temporary accommodation, contact Solihull Community Housing on 0121 717 1515 (24/7).
To report and refer a rough sleeper for help contact StreetLink at streetlink or on 0300 500 0914.
To help provide additional support for local homeless people please make a donation at changeintoaction
