Government money to help rough sleepers in Sheffield

Sheffield Council said the number of people recorded as homeless reached a record high in April.

More than 4,000 people or families had told the authority they would be without a home in 2022-23, the latest figure available.

A council report says the number of homeless people living in the city’s B&Bs and hotels is at “unsustainable and unaffordable levels” and that “urgent action” is needed.

Sheffield was chosen in 2023 to be part of a five-year campaign launched by the Prince of Wales aimed at ending homelessness in Britain.

The city is one of six places where Prince William benefits from the Homewards charity fund.

The minister said she would work with other government departments to tackle homelessness in the long term.

Other areas in South Yorkshire will also benefit from the grant.

With Rotherham Council receiving £24,000, Doncaster £22,000 and Barnsley £35,000.

“In addition to the £10 million we are providing, the Chancellor has announced an additional £233 million in the Budget to tackle all forms of homelessness,” the minister added.

“This is a very challenging area. We won’t be able to solve this overnight, but we are absolutely committed to having both the longer-term strategy and the immediate support that people desperately need now.”

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