Chance to have a say on plans to tackle rough sleeping in Stafford

People still have time to have a say on plans to reduce rough sleeping and homelessness in Stafford Borough.

Stafford Borough Council has launched a draft strategy that aims to tackle the issues after compiling extensive evidence from several stakeholders - including people who have slept rough and organisations that help those at risk of being homeless.

At the heart of the strategy is work to get rough sleepers off the streets and into sustainable accommodation as well as preventing people from becoming homeless.

Organisations, such as The House of Bread charity in Stafford, and mental health services provider, Midlands Partnership Foundation Trust, have been working with the council on the new strategy that will run until 2030.

Now residents, businesses and other local organisations are being invited to give their feedback as part of a consultation on the ‘Homelessness and Rough Sleeper Strategy 2025 - 2030’ - which you can find from the council’s website - Homelessness and Rough Sleeper Strategy 2020-2025 | Stafford Borough Council

Key priorities for the council to focus on over the next five years include ‘early help and prevention,’ ‘the pathway out of rough sleeping’ and ‘increasing the options for housing those in need.’

Councillor Jill Hood, Cabinet Member for Community, said: “We have received national recognition for the successful initiatives we have introduced over the years to tackle the issues of rough sleeping and homelessness.

“Over recent times we have seen increases in people needing our help with several challenges, such as Covid, energy prices, and the cost of living, making life very difficult for those in our community.”

She continued, “Just putting a roof over someone’s head will not guarantee they will stay off the streets. They need the appropriate accommodation and levels of support tailored to their individual circumstances.

“So, I would encourage people to take part in the consultation because your views will help us deliver a plan to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping in our borough for years to come.”

People have until Sunday 19 January to give their feedback, or if you require any further information please contact

housingadvice@staffordbc.gov.uk or call 01785 619000. 

Find out more about the work of the charity House of Bread here, House of Bread Stafford