Communities Secretary announces £3.2 million emergency funding to help rough sleepers to self-isolate

Funding will reimburse councils for the cost of providing accommodation and services to those that need to self-isolate during the COVID-19 outbreak

The Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick has announced £3.2 million emergency funding to help rough sleepers to self-isolate to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Announcing the funding today, that will reimburse councils for the cost of providing accommodation and services to rough sleepers, and those at risk of rough sleeping, who are suffering from or at risk of coronavirus, Mr Jenrick said -

‘The initial funding that I’ve announced today will ensure councils are able to put emergency measures in place to help some of the most vulnerable people in our society to successfully self-isolate.

I would urge anyone who is concerned about someone sleeping rough to use the government’s StreetLink app [or online www.streetlink.org.uk] to alert local support services who can reach out to those in need at this difficult time.’

Commenting on the announcement, Medical Director at Public Health England Dr Yvonne Doyle said -

‘People sleeping rough are often in poor health and are particularly vulnerable. That’s why this funding is so important, ensuring that rough sleepers who get symptoms have somewhere safe and protective to stay, and helping to prevent the spread of the infection.’

For more information, see £3.2 million emergency support for rough sleepers during coronavirus outbreak from gov.uk