Blackpool Rough Sleeper Highlights Accommodation Shortage Amid Council Outreach

An individual experiencing homelessness in a coastal town stated that he had “nowhere” to go, attributing this to the fact that “everywhere is full”. Steven relocated to Blackpool from Stoke-on-Trent two decades prior, following his separation from his wife, drawn by childhood memories of “happier times” in the area. The 55-year-old reported sleeping on the promenade “for about a year” and indicated he was making strenuous efforts to secure alternative shelter. Blackpool Council commented that it is “extremely active in engaging with rough sleepers and homeless people” and that a significant portion of its initiatives aims at “stopping people from being homeless in the first place”. Steven stated that he contacted housing agencies “every day” in search of accommodation, but found that “there is nothing available”. He further remarked, “It is very cold especially at this time of year” and described the circumstances as “a bad situation,” yet affirmed his resolve to persevere. This situation follows a call earlier this week from Chris Webb, the MP for Blackpool South, for increased resources to address the surge in homelessness within the resort. Addressing the Commons, the Labour MP noted that the local council and other relevant organizations were already operating at their maximum capacity. He stated: “Over the last two years we have witnessed the staggering 50% increase in homelessness in Blackpool, underlining the urgent need for support in our communities.” He continued: “Blackpool’s homelessness partnership working together with the local council, the third sector and local charities have been doing some outstanding work to prevent homelessness but we need more support.” Rushanara Ali MP, the Minister for Homelessness and Democracy, affirmed the government’s dedication to combating homelessness, citing £500m in funding allocated to assist local authorities. Councillor Jo Farrell, Blackpool Council’s cabinet member for communities and wellbeing, commented that the count of rough sleepers in Blackpool is “relatively low compared with the national picture,” attributing this to the council’s efforts in “stopping people from being homeless in the first place.” She explained that the council’s housing outreach team or its partners visit the town almost daily, being “extremely active in engaging with rough sleepers and homeless people” and pinpointing individuals requiring support and assistance. “This may involve finding suitable accommodation which in most cases we are able to find,” she stated. The councillor further mentioned that members of the public who spot a rough sleeper can contact the council at 01253 477765 or via email at HSAT@blackpool.gov.uk, while housing options, offering advice and homelessness prevention, can be reached at 01253 477600. Information on BBC Radio Lancashire is available on Sounds, with updates from BBC Lancashire accessible on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story contributions can be sent to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk or via Whatsapp at 0808 100 2230. This material is subject to BBC copyright, 2024, with all rights reserved. The BBC clarifies that it bears no responsibility for the content of external websites and provides details on its policy regarding external links.