We're delighted to welcome New Forest District Council as a new member of Homeless Link!
New Forest District Council is one of the largest districts in the country, covering 290 square miles and with a population of over 177,000. They are proud to be a stock holding authority, with 5,100 council-owned properties that enable the provision of housing to those who need it most.
In 2019, the council updated their housing allocations policy, giving higher priority to those who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. As part of their commitment to addressing mental health issues among people experiencing homelessness, in November 2021, they recruited a mental health practitioner who is now fully embedded in the homelessness team.
The practitioner provides mental health support to those who are rough sleeping or experiencing homelessness in the district. Clients with enduring mental health conditions have seen improved outcomes for treatment, mental health interventions, accommodation, and access to services.
Additionally, the council are committed to providing accommodation in each of the main conurbations around the district, allowing households experiencing homelessness to stay around their local support networks. Since 2019, they have developed 450 units of additional accommodation for all homeless households including accommodation for rough sleepers.
To find out more about their work visit their website or email Homelessness Team Leader, Megan Ward at Megan.ward@nfdc.gov.uk.
