Twelve point plan will help rough sleepers in Milton Keynes

A twelve point plan to help vulnerable rough sleepers has been unveiled this week by Milton Keynes Council.

The council has entered into partnership with charities and voluntary organisations to deliver the plan and “avoid further tragic deaths”, said leader Pete Marland.

The actions include providing 10 beds for over 35s at city hostels, employing specialist support workers to deal with their needs, and providing a ‘one stop shop’ at the Buszy.

There will be a dedicated mental health access point for rough sleepers to visit, an extension of the Open Door service, and two new outreach link workers employed.

A joint funding bid to the government will also be made with Luton, Bedford and Central Beds Councils to provide “prevention hubs”, enabling crisis intervention with rough sleepers.

The 12-point package will cost £300,000. Council leader Pete Marland said: “It shows we are listening to the key players working with rough sleepers and we can find a way to help.”

Many of the actions will help people over the age of 35 who have previously slipped through the net of statuatory help available. But the council has vowed to carry on funding the YMCA for the under 35s.