The strategy sets the scene for implementing strategic change and focuses on a person-centred approach. 

The Council’s strategy for ending homelessness has four main aims:

•    To reduce levels of hidden homelessness and rough sleeping
•    To prioritise prevention
•    To ensure that there is appropriate person-centred support in place
•    To ensure the availability of suitable accommodation

The strategy has been co-produced with the involvement of our key partners and stakeholders and aims to provide a better quality of life for some of the borough’s most vulnerable residents. 

Councillor Marion Fitzgerald, Deputy Leader and Executive Member, said: “The Homelessness Prevention and Rough Sleeping Strategy is very close to my heart because it helps to secure accommodation for those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. It also provides the means to stop the revolving door - supporting people so that they do not become homeless again. 

“This strategy builds on the achievements made in the last few years and is based upon a person-centred approach. It absolutely recognises the need to focus on the person rather than on processes and procedures. Listening to those with lived experience of homelessness is an essential part of this.

“I am very conscious of the hard work that has been carried out by the Housing Options Team at Allerdale and by our statutory and voluntary partners. Much has already been achieved in tackling homelessness and this new strategy will help to focus our efforts.”

A review of Allerdale’s homelessness and rough sleeping data was undertaken to help inform the new objectives in the strategy – you can see a summary of the review findings here. 

The Council’s Housing Options team provide 24-hour support to those at risk of homelessness and rough sleeping. For more information click here.