Crisis housing

SIR – When people with mental health problems, people fleeing domestic violence and homeless people have needed short-term housing and support, it has always been paid for through the benefit system.

However, the Government is now considering giving a grant to councils to pay for such services, without guarantees that this money will be secure in the longer term. With the Government’s decision due soon, we’re facing a real risk that these vital safety nets could disappear unless the proposal is reversed.

Without such housing, we should expect serious consequences – including an increase in vulnerable people sleeping rough – with the police and NHS picking up the tab. For example, a person with mental health problems who is unable to access this lifeline could face a hampered recovery, or find themselves in a hospital bed when this is completely unnecessary.

We want to work with the Government to get this right and create a modern, working system. Agreeing a way to fund these vital services together makes moral, practical and economic sense.

David Orr Chief Executive, National Housing Federation

Mark Winstanley Chief Executive, Rethink Mental Illness