Milton Keynes City Council is raising awareness on the work it is doing to tackle homelessness and end rough sleeping in MK for good.
Today, 10th October, is World Homeless Day. Milton Keynes City Council is highlighting this by raising awareness of how homelessness is being tackled in the city.
Milton Keynes City Council has found a secure home for almost 30 homeless people since it opened a new shelter at a former city centre bus station just three months ago.
In June, the City Council opened its brand new shelter, specifically for male rough sleepers, at the former bus station in Central Milton Keynes.
The shelter can provide overnight accommodation and support for up to 19 people at a time who would otherwise be sleeping rough.
Almost 80 people have used the shelter so far with most users only staying for a short period before accessing further assistance. As well as receiving expert clinical help, guests can also be supported to find work and training, and to access benefits.
Cabinet Member for Adults, Housing and Healthy Communities, Cllr Emily Darlington said: “World Homeless Day gives us the opportunity to reflect on the how hard it is for people and how we can provide the right level of help. No one in MK needs to be sleeping rough and our outreach team is out daily encouraging people to take up offers of accommodation. The new shelter is a brilliant asset and gives us the space to ensure that people are not faced with a night on the street.
“I’m proud of the work we’re doing in this area which is giving people a genuine chance at living a healthy and happy life. My thanks go out to all colleagues and partners for the work they’re doing as we move towards ending rough sleeping for good in MK.”
MK City Council encourages people to report anyone they think might be sleeping rough via Streetlink so support can be offered.
