Over 100 people did not have to sleep on the streets of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk, and immediate support to help those without a roof over their head is now available.
Those are just two findings in a new report which reviews the first year of the borough council’s strategy to help the homeless and rough sleepers.
It shows how night shelter residents were relocated to keep them safe at the start of the pandemic, a vacant hostel created ten new beds, and the South Lynn Community Centre catered for eight people.
There were also daily welfare checks, food was provided by the Purfleet Trust and Alive Leisure catering staff, and special packs were distributed containing items like sanitiser and masks.
The council also worked with Freebridge Community Housing and Broadland Housing Group to secure temporary homes, and welfare cabins also provided accommodation for some people.
Sam Sandell, the borough councillor overseeing people and communities, said: “We and our partners did everything we could to support those in our communities without a home. It was not just about providing accommodation. It was also about offering additional support and resources that could make a difference.
“We remain thoroughly committed to offering significant support for people who find themselves homeless, and helping people to get off the streets and into warm, safe accommodation.”
Meanwhile the council and Broadland Housing Association have secured funding to provide 23 new one-bedroom flats with support in different parts of King’s Lynn. Six of them will also offer extra support for those who need it most.
Nowhere to stay?
If anyone is worried that they have nowhere to stay, please contact the council as soon as possible. The sooner they know, the more likely it is they’ll be able to see you and provide advice or support.
• Phone: 01553 616200
• email: housingoptions@west-norfolk.
Out of hours
If you need help when the council office is closed, call the emergency out of hours number on 01553 616601
Concerned about someone sleeping rough
If anyone is concerned for someone sleeping rough, or is sleeping rough themselves,
• call Streetlink on 0300 500 0914, or
• visit www.streetlink.org.uk