DUDLEY Council has received almost £44,000 to help prevent homelessness as the coronavirus lockdown begins to ease.

The local authority has been given the cash boost from the West Midlands Combined Authority Rough Sleepers Initiative to help with the expected increased demand for homelessness services as people slowly emerge from lockdown.

Council chiefs expect a spike in demand for homelessness services as a result of the increased strain on household and relationships caused by lockdown over the past three months.

Councillor Laura Taylor, cabinet member for housing, communities and residents’ welfare, said: "At the moment, we don’t know what the full impact of coronavirus will be and how many people will be at risk of losing their home as a result.

"It’s a really tough time for many and this is why we must do everything we can to help people and I therefore welcome this additional funding to boost this really important area of work.

"One of the specific ways we’re going to be able to help people is providing rent guarantees and deposits in some cases to help people secure accommodation in the private sector. This will help to offer a wide range of housing options."

The money will support people who are sofa surfing or living in temporary or unstable arrangements and will also support the work of the council’s homelessness team, who respond to all reports of rough sleeping and provide advice and support to people at risk of losing their home or who have suddenly become homeless.

The Dudley rough sleepers helpline is 0300 555 0030 and reports can also be made to Dudley Council Plus on 0300 555 2345.