Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council has been awarded more than £9.2 million to support homelessness prevention and provide targeted assistance for rough sleepers.
The funding, provided by the Ministry for Housing, Communities & Local Government, is among the highest allocations in the country, reflecting the council’s continued efforts in tackling homelessness.
The financial support will be used to prevent at-risk individuals from becoming homeless and offer essential accommodation and services to those already affected.
Figures from Dorset Council in 2023, show 1,342 people are estimated to be homeless in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole this year.
Of these, 1,270 live in temporary accommodation – organised by social services, the council or themselves – including 535 children.
£8.7 million, has been designated for the next financial year to fund a range of homelessness and rough sleeping initiatives, including prevention strategies, rough sleeping support, accommodation provisions, and drug and alcohol treatment programmes.
£509,000 has been granted for the remainder of the current financial year to assist individuals at immediate risk of sleeping rough, ensuring they receive the necessary support and access to suitable accommodation.
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