How Chesterfield council will help the homeless this winter – as it’s confirmed night shelter won’t operate due to Covid-19 concerns

Chesterfield Borough Council has confirmed ‘a range of Covid-safe options’ will instead support rough sleepers over the winter months.

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For the past two winters, the authority has helped to fund a night shelter project which has seen a number of local churches offering space to individuals who need a roof over their head as well as food and other support.

Sylvia Tidmarsh, who runs a foodbank in New Tupton, contacted the Derbyshire Times to voice concerns about the project not operating this winter.

“The homeless and rough sleepers are some of the most vulnerable members of our society and they need as much help as possible,” she said.

In response, Councillor Chris Ludlow, the borough council’s cabinet member for housing, said: “We’re committed to making sure that no one has to sleep rough on the streets – especially over the winter – and have a range of accommodation options available in Chesterfield.

“The night shelter we have successfully run in the past is simply not a safe option this year.

“The Government guidance is clear – accommodating people in these kinds of shared spaces is too high-risk in terms of exposing them to Covid-19.

“Safety must come first, and so we have a put in place a range of Covid-safe options to support rough sleepers this year.

“This includes accommodation such as furnished council-owned properties, local B&Bs and hotel rooms.”

She added: “The Covid-19 situation is ever-changing, and we will continually review and adapt our homelessness support options in line with the latest Government guidance.

“Building on the work we did under the ‘Everyone In’ initiative at the start of the pandemic, we are in a strong position to offer safe, emergency and temporary accommodation to anyone who needs it – people should contact us by calling 07870 277 291 or by emailing [email protected] to seek help for themselves, or someone else who needs it.”

Government data revealed 13 people were estimated to be sleeping on the streets in Chesterfield during a spot check on one night last autumn.

That figure was ​down from 18 recorded in 2018.

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