How Derbyshire councils and charities are helping the homeless and rough sleepers during the coronavirus pandemic

A Government initiative aims to house all rough sleepers and homeless people at this difficult time.

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In our area, the scheme is being organised by the North Derbyshire Homelessness Forum, which is made up of Chesterfield Borough Council, North East Derbyshire District Council, Bolsover District Council, Amber Valley Borough Council and Derbyshire Dales District Council.

They are also working with other organisations including Derbyshire County Council, Pathways of Chesterfield, the Derbyshire Law Centre and the P3 charity.

Councillor Chris Ludlow, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said: “We are working very hard to identify all members of the local community who require support at this difficult time.

“This approach of partnership working helps ensure that all those identified, no matter what problems they are facing, will receive the shelter and support that they need.”

The North Derbyshire Homelessness Forum has so far been able to provide:

- furnished flats and houses within the local authorities’ own stock

- accommodation at bed and breakfasts

- supported accommodation for the most vulnerable

- accommodation at a local hotel

A spokesperson said: “We recognise that simply providing shelter is often not the only solution to the problems faced by this vulnerable community.

“We have therefore arranged for internal and external support to be available, including the provision of food supplies for the most vulnerable.

“The main objective of this initiative is to assist people by helping them to isolate and therefore avoid going outside.

“Everyone has their own specific needs and requirements which is why we have identified a team of key professionals including council homelessness officers, public health staff and specialist homeless support workers from the voluntary sector.

“This team will carefully assess each person needing somewhere to stay and make the most appropriate placement in accordance with their needs and their safety.

“Our outreach teams are currently operating as normal and are trying to make contact with rough sleepers where they are made aware of them.”

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