Extra funds for rough sleepers leaving hospital

A scheme to help rough sleepers when they’re discharged from the Royal United Hospital has been given more funding.

The move comes thanks to a bid by Bath and North East Somerset Homelessness Partnership, which is run in partnership with the charity Developing Health & Independence (DHI).

The project aims to ensure that homeless people are discharged to suitable accommodation, rather than back onto the streets.

It will receive £60,000 in 2020/21 from a £417,000 Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government fund.

The grant will go towards extending emergency accommodation in severe weather, mental health workers, helping rough sleepers access accommodation by supporting private landlords.

David Walton, DHI housing director, said: “Our homeless in hospital work has helped over 80 of the most vulnerable people being discharged from the RUH and ensured they had somewhere safe to go on to.”

Bernie Marden, RUH medical director, said: “It’s excellent news that this valuable service will continue at the RUH to help some of the most vulnerable people in our community.

“The DHI team have proven their worth over the years and we’re so glad they’ll be carrying on their great work in the hospital.”

Tim Ball, Bath & North East Somerset Council cabinet member for Housing, Planning and Economic Development, said: “We are pleased that the excellent work already being done by a range of partner agencies across Bath and North East Somerset will not only continue for another year, but can be added to.

“We know that the needs of people sleeping rough are complex and can take time to address.

“This funding will help us build on what we know works and to develop new approaches for those whose needs are most acute.’’