Kevin Foster, MP for Torbay, pledged to help end rough sleeping at a St Mungo’s event in Parliament earlier this week, [Wednesday 29 November], hosted by Mary Robinson MP.
More than 80 guests, including St Mungo’s clients, parliamentarians and charity representatives, met in the House of Commons to discuss the government’s commitment to end rough sleeping, with Communities Secretary Sajid Javid MP and Shadow Housing Secretary John Healey MP attending.
Kevin was one of more than 50 parliamentarians from across political parties who attended the event. Rough sleeping has increased by 134% over the last five years across England. Recent figures revealed that 8,108 people were seen rough sleeping in London in 2016-17.
Each MP was also given a special advent calendar with doors opening to reveal steps that St Mungo’s clients have taken on their journey out of rough sleeping.
This calendar was designed using information from real stories shared by some of the 2,700 clients for whom St Mungo’s provides housing and support each night.
Kevin said, “I was pleased to attend St Mungo’s event and talk with them about the work being done to tackle homelessness in the bay, including by local charities. I welcome the cross-party commitment to tackling this issue and finally bringing an end to rough sleeping over the next decade.”
Howard Sinclair, Chief Executive of St Mungo’s, said: “Rough sleeping is harmful and dangerous and ruins lives.
“We are pleased that the Secretary of State has stressed the government’s resolve to end rough sleeping, and that so many have personally pledged to help end rough sleeping.
“Tackling homelessness is one of the major issues society faces over the coming years and we welcome the announcement of a new homelessness taskforce, announced in the Budget, and more piloting of innovative approaches such as Housing First.
“If ministers are serious about meeting this government commitment by 2027, there is a lot of work to do. Homeless hostels and other supported housing will be key to achieving this commitment, and ensuring people are not left out in the cold this winter, or in the years ahead.
“Our thanks to MP Mary Robinson and other guests who joined us to explore how we can make a society where no-one is sleeping rough on the streets a reality by 2027.”
Contact Kevin Foster MP on 01803 214989