Dozens of vulnerable people presenting as homeless are receiving vital support and shelter as part of wide reaching measures from Adur & Worthing Councils.
Since the Coronavirus lockdown was announced by the government last month, the number of single people presenting as homeless in Worthing has doubled from 70 to 140.
Despite a range of pressures, the Councils have found suitable accommodation in the local area for all these vulnerable people.
This includes a small number of rough sleepers who, with the support of local businesses and charities, are being housed in hotels.
Thanks to local firm Cafe Montague, the 70 most in-need individuals are provided with three hot home-cooked meals a day while a specialist company ensures accommodation is regularly deep cleaned as a precaution against Coronavirus.
In addition, the Councils dedicated Outreach and Housing teams are on shift round the clock to support individuals during this difficult time on issues such as housing, finance, mental health and substance abuse.
Cllr Heather Mercer, Worthing Borough Council’s Executive Member for Customer Services, said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has placed enormous pressure on people across our area resulting in a large increase in the number presenting as homeless. But thanks to a huge effort we have made sure that everyone has been placed in suitable accommodation and continues to receive ongoing support in these difficult times.
“In addition to providing basic needs of shelter and food, our excellent teams are spending valuable time with those who are homeless to support them in finding the support services needed to get them back on track.
“I want to thank everyone for pulling together at this time, from Councils staff to charities, local cafes to hoteliers and landlords. Thanks to this incredible team effort we have been able to make sure that those in most need are not being left behind in these very difficult times.”
In Adur, there has been no major increase of homelessness but Councils teams continue to monitor the situation and support those in need.
Teams are keeping in regular contact with the more than 200 people and families in temporary accommodation to offer help and ensure they are able to access vital supplies at this time. Work to find more permanent housing for these individuals continues.
Cllr Carson Albury, Adur District Council’s Executive Member for Customer Services, which includes housing, said: “Coronavirus is having a devastating impact on all aspects of society which is why our teams have been working round the clock to support those in need at this time.
“I urge anyone who is at risk of homelessness at this time to contact us so that we can ensure they receive a helping hand in these most difficult of times.”
Anyone concerned about losing their accommodation should visit: www.adur-worthing.gov.uk/housing/advice/.
