Local authority leaders have welcomed the Government’s funding pledge to tackle homelessness but warn long-term investment is needed rather than ‘just a one-off emergency response’.

Communities secretary Robert Jenrick today announced that £310m will be targeted at areas with high numbers of homeless people.

The funding is part of the £750m announced at the Spending Review which is for tackling homelessness and rough sleeping next year.

‘Today I am announcing £310m to help councils protect those at risk of homelessness in the year ahead,’ said Mr Jenrick.

‘We have a moral duty to help some of the most vulnerable people in our society rebuild their lives and look forward to a brighter future, and this funding will help us to realise that ambition.’

Cllr David Renard, the Local Government Association (LGA) housing spokesperson, described the announcement as ‘positive’. However, he warned that long-term investment was required to deal with the housing crisis and homelessness.

‘Councils want to continue working with Government to build on the success we have achieved during the pandemic to safely accommodate people sleeping rough and prevent individuals and families from facing the tragedy of becoming homelessness,’ he said.

‘We want to make this a new normal and not just a one-off emergency response. Now we need to look towards adequately funding council services in the long-term, and supporting councils to build the social housing the country needs to reduce homelessness.’