“Councils are working tirelessly to protect and help those who are most vulnerable during this pandemic. A joined-up approach, alongside the police and health, is vital so we are pleased the Secretary of State has been able to secure vital extra funding for support services.”
Responding to funding for support services for vulnerable people during the coronavirus pandemic and plans for Dame Louise Casey to lead a homelessness taskforce announced at today’s Downing Street briefing, Cllr James Jamieson, Chairman of the Local Government Association, said:
“Getting homeless people and rough sleepers off the streets has been a monumental effort by councils. They stand ready to work with Dame Louise Casey on a national plan to move them into safe housing after emergency measures are lifted. This must ensure they also have access to wider support they might need for substance dependency and help with benefits, skills and getting work.
“Concerns are growing about vulnerable children with referrals to children’s social care down by more than half in many areas. Emergency measures are also creating ‘pressure cooker’ situations within households with victims more exposed to domestic abuse, which we know can have a devastating impact on families and children.
“Councils are working tirelessly to protect and help those who are most vulnerable during this pandemic. A joined-up approach, alongside the police and health, is vital so we are pleased the Secretary of State has been able to secure vital extra funding for support services.”