Published: Tuesday 5 March 2024
Cllr Sof McVeigh, the Council’s Lead Member for Housing, is encouraging residents to play their part in supporting rough sleepers by making use of the StreetLink service.
Members of the public who know of a rough sleeper can report them via the StreetLink website, which will in turn alert local authorities and charities who can then offer help and support.
The call comes after Cllr McVeigh joined one of the Council’s outreach teams which patrols the borough in all weathers to find and support rough sleepers.
The patrols are part of a wide package of support provided to those sleeping on the streets, including a unique Dual Diagnosis service which delivers personalised support plans comprising services such as counselling, group therapy, detox and rehab.
Cllr McVeigh said:
“While we do not have many rough sleepers in our borough, it was humbling seeing how kind and patient our outreach team were with those we did come across.
“I was also struck by the complexity of each individual situation and how no two people face the same challenges. That is why we work closely with partners such as St Mungo’s, the police and neighbouring boroughs not just to support rough sleepers off the streets, but to help them address issues with mental health or addiction.
“We can only provide that assistance if we know where and when there is someone in need and our residents can play a vital role by linking us with rough sleepers via Street Link.”
To make an alert to StreetLink, visit the organisation's website.