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Khan steps up winter rough sleeper measures
London mayor Sadiq Khan has announced plans to help rough sleepers over the winter.
The Greater London Authority’s (GLA) street outreach team will double in size, while severe weather shelters will open across the city when temperatures are forecast to hit freezing.
Contactless donation points will also be installed in 35 locations, with the proceeds to be split between the London Homeless Charities Group of 22 charities, alongside an online donation page.
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“It is shameful that rough sleeping has risen so much under this government, and it is our moral duty to do all we can to help people facing homelessness in our city,” said Mr Khan.
“Ultimately, we need the government to wake up and stop ignoring the fact their cuts to welfare and support services are pushing more people onto the street.
“Along with councils and charities in London, we need sustained funding to help people off the streets and an honest focus by ministers on the root causes of homelessness to end rough sleeping in London for good.”
All London councils have agreed to accommodate rough sleepers in emergency shelters until a support plan is in place to help them off the streets.
The expanded outreach team has been paid for through £12m of government funding for GLA rough sleeping services.
