More beds available for the homeless
14/10/2011
Housing associations, councils and other providers throughout the country have seen funding increased in order to provide more beds for the homeless.
It is estimated by the Homes and Communities Agency that the £37.5 million of funding will enable 1,200 bed spaces to be created.
Housing minister Grant Shapps commented: "It is shocking that there are rough sleepers on the streets of 21st century Britain who continue to fall through the net of assistance that's on offer."
London received the biggest financial boost, with £11 million of the allocated funding being dedicated to improving services for rough sleepers in the city.
Meanwhile, Premier Inn has appointed an official bed bouncing director, who will assess comfort levels of mattresses throughout the chain's hotels.
Natalie Thomas, 39, has been tasked with trying out 46,000 beds by the end of February next year alongside a team of experts.
Posted by Michael Ewing
