Published: 16/12/2020
SUPPORT is available for residents who need a safe place to stay this Christmas.
Copeland Council is urging residents who find themselves homeless, at risk of homelessness or suffering from domestic abuse to come forward.
Early intervention is key for those at risk of homelessness with council staff able to provide the help and support needed to prevent residents becoming homeless.
In 2020, up until October 31, the Council’s Housing Options team has supported 376 people. The team has received 244 homeless applications and have successfully rehoused or prevented 178 people from becoming homeless, the remainder of the cases are ongoing. They have also provided temporary accommodation to 101 people.
The Council has also supported more than 300 men, women and children to leave abusive homes since its support service was introduced in 2018.
In addition to the role, the council also provides emergency accommodation to those in need to ensure they have a safe place to stay. Some of these properties have been expertly designed specifically for people with children.
Mike Starkie, Mayor of Copeland, said: “Unfortunately some people find themselves with nowhere to go this time of year.
“This year, more than any, has been incredibly tough both emotionally and financially for many.
“Christmas is a time where emotions are already high and the financial burden is increased, and we want to ensure that our residents know what services are available to them.
“We have a fantastic housing team who provide help and support to our residents at risk, and we know that early intervention is key to tackling these issues, particularly at a time when demand is high.
“So we urge anyone experiencing these issues to get in touch as soon as possible so we can provide the support you need.”
Public authorities are also being reminded of their duty to refer service users who they think may be homeless or threatened with homelessness to local authority housing options teams.
The Council’s Housing Options team provides 24-hour advice and support over the Christmas period for emergency cases of domestic abuse support and homelessness. Residents can contact the team by email at housing.options@copeland.gov.uk or call 01946 598300.
The council advises that anyone who believes they are in immediate danger of abuse or exploitation should call 999 immediately. Those who are affected by these issues but are not homeless or at risk of homelessness should call the National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247 or email helpline@refuge.org.uk
