The Progressive Alliance on MK Council has reaffirmed its commitment that 'nobody has to sleep rough' in Milton Keynes, following the hottest day in the UK on record.
Recently, MK Council converted the former bus station into a shelter for rough sleepers. The new shelter can provide overnight accommodation and support services for up to 18 people who otherwise would be sleeping rough.
Council colleagues and partners from the NHS and voluntary organisations from the Homelessness Partnership will be onsite to provide essential support, and the space also includes shower and kitchen facilities.
Those who visit the old bus station are then moved into temporary accommodation or supported with alternative accommodation.
Councillor Emily Darlington, Labour Progressive Alliance Cabinet Member with responsibility for homelessness, said: “Just a few years ago, Milton Keynes was being called tent city because of the Conservative government’s appalling record on housing and homelessness. We then pledged to end rough-sleeping, and we have.
"However, issues surrounding homelessness and rough sleeping are often complex and the Council is aware of around 4 or 5 individuals who currently don't wish to engage with the homelessness service right now. We are doing regular welfare checks to ensure they are okay, and we will not give up on anyone.”
Councillor Robin Bradburn, Lib Dem Deputy Leader of the Council, added: “Rough sleepers are homeless, but not all homeless people are rough sleepers. In Milton Keynes we have seen a frightening correlation between the number of no-fault evictions, or Section 21 notices, and the number of families presenting themselves as homeless to our temporary accommodation team.
“The Government’s continuous lack of effort to ban these cruel evictions has seen far too many families lose their homes. We welcome the news that these inhumane Section 21s will finally be abolished but it should have come sooner. There are far too many families who have suffered as a result.”
