BASILDON Council has received an increased grant of £1,304,867 from the government to help it tackle the problems of homelessness and rough sleeping in the borough.

It is an increase of £287,485, year on year.

Basildon and Billericay MP John Baron has recognised the increased help and said: "I welcome Basildon Council receiving this extra money in order to help rough sleepers and to prevent homelessness.

"We must continue with our 'prevention first' approach which focuses on preventing people from sleeping rough in the first place. 

"I also understand that rough sleeping is not an easy issue to solve – with some struggling with substance and alcohol misuse issues, which themselves may be a result of trauma."

Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Felicity Buchan, said: "We are working alongside councils and charities to do all we can to help rough sleepers off the streets and to prevent homelessness.

"Today's announcement brings the total funding to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping to an unprecedented £2.4 billion, meaning we can help thousands of the most vulnerable people and give them the support they need to rebuild their lives."