Council seeks public's views on homelessness plan

A Surrey council is seeking residents' views on a draft strategy to address homelessness and rough sleeping.

Spelthorne Borough Council has a statutory duty to publish a new housing, homelessness and rough sleeping strategy every five years.

The local authority said about five people were sleeping rough in Spelthorne at any one time, although the number fluctuated.

It also said more than 235 households were currently in bed and breakfast or temporary accommodation, of which around one fifth were placed outside the borough.

Its housing options team has an active caseload of more than 460 households, two thirds of which were families, it added.

A spokesperson said: "We want to ensure all Spelthorne residents have their own roof over their heads at night and this draft strategy is designed to tackle this challenge."

Feedback is sought on three key priorities outlined in the draft strategy for 2025 to 2030: partnership working to tackle homelessness; identifying opportunities to address housing need, and proactive prevention.

Chair of the community wellbeing committee, councillor Susan Doran said: "We have taken steps to reduce and prevent homelessness in Spelthorne, including opening two homeless facilities in the borough."

The council said the strategy had been drafted by a collaborative housing, homelessness and rough sleeping working group, based on engagement with stakeholders and service users.

The consultation will run until Sunday 19 January.

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