Somerset’s Homelessness Charter was launched on Thursday 23 October at an event attended by Somerset professionals as well as two speakers with lived experience of homelessness.
Produced by the Homelessness Reduction Board, the charter has the following aims which are based on the four principles outlined in Somerset Council’s Homelessness and Rough Sleeper Strategy. These form four action groups.
They are:
- Improving Data Insight: Improve how data about people who are homeless or rough sleeping is recorded, making it easier for teams to identify gaps in service provision and spot trends in data.
- Ending Rough Sleeping: Prevent rough sleeping by offering creative accommodation solutions and helping people to transition into permanent accommodation sooner.
- Access to Accommodation For All: Collaborate with Housing teams to provide more affordable and accessible accommodation in Somerset which is tailored to residents’ needs.
- Improving Prevention: Identify people at risk of homelessness earlier and help them to stay in their homes where possible or move to alternative long-term housing.
Councillor Sarah Wakefield, Lead Member for Adults Services, Housing and Homelessness at Somerset Council was in attendance on Thursday.
She said:
The launch of the Somerset Homelessness Charter is a call to action for everyone in the community, such as residents, businesses, public services, and voluntary organisations, to work with us to ensure homelessness is not an inevitable or acceptable part of life in Somerset.
By signing the charter or joining an action group, you are showing your dedication to our shared belief that we can make a difference to homelessness in Somerset.
Claire Tough, Chair of the Homelessness Reduction Board, said:
As Chair of the Homelessness Reduction Board, I am pleased to introduce the Homelessness Charter, a comprehensive and collaborative commitment designed to address and ultimately eradicate homelessness in our community. This charter represents our collective aim to provide effective solutions, resources, and support to those who are experiencing homelessness.
Our guiding principles include dignity, respect, and compassion for every individual. By working together with government agencies, non-profit organisations, and community stakeholders, we strive to create a cohesive network that ensures no one is left without shelter, care, or the opportunity to rebuild their lives.
The Homelessness Charter outlines our strategic goals and actionable steps, focusing on prevention, intervention, and sustained support. It is built upon evidence-based practices and the invaluable input of those with lived experiences of homelessness. Together, we can foster a community where everyone has a safe and stable place to call home.
More information about the Somerset Homelessness Charter and how you can get involved in an action group or offer other resources to support the work is available on the Council’s website.
