Key facts
- Homelessness spending to nearly £900 million by end of parliament.
- Additional £432 million commitment to tackle homelessness.
- Initial £442 million allocated from existing budgets.
- Goal to offer every rough sleeper a safe route off streets by Christmas.
- National Housing Federation to identify 2,000 homes and bed spaces.
- Conservative criticism of increased spending and past failures.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, announced on Monday that spending to end rough sleeping will be doubled to nearly £900 million by the end of the current parliament. The initiative aims to provide a safe route off the streets for every rough sleeper by Christmas and offer continued support. The funding includes an initial £442 million from existing budgets and an additional £432 million commitment. Burnham emphasized the need for societal collaboration, bringing together businesses, charities, and local leaders at a Downing Street summit to ensure lasting solutions. Specialist outreach teams and new accommodation are already being rolled out in areas like Coventry, Plymouth, and Camden.