The government has announced an increase to the Rough Sleeping Winter Pressures Funding from £10 million to £30 million. This boost is aimed at helping councils across the country provide immediate support for individuals sleeping rough during the harsh winter months.

The additional funding will enable over 280 councils, to expand their resources for frontline services. This includes warm beds, hot meals, medical care, and outreach programs for vulnerable populations such as veterans, care leavers, and domestic abuse survivors.

Homelessness poses significant health risks, particularly during the winter, with rough sleepers facing heightened vulnerability to chronic illnesses. By tripling the funding, the government seeks to save lives and offer long-term support to those most in need.

The initiative aligns with broader efforts under the government’s “Plan for Change,” which aims to address the housing crisis through increased social and affordable housing, strengthened tenant protections, and measures to prevent homelessness.

This funding increase builds on the nearly £1 billion allocated to homelessness prevention this year, including substantial support through the Rough Sleeping Prevention and Recovery Grant. These efforts reflect a commitment to addressing the systemic issues contributing to homelessness and rough sleeping.

Members can find detailed information on the funding and its allocation HERE.