Today (Friday 28 October), Kelly Tolhurst MP spoke in the Commons chamber to give support the Bob Blackman MP’s Homelessness (Reduction) Private Members’ Bill.
Homelessness is a problem in Medway as it is across the country. Despite the dedicated work by the likes of Emmaus Medway and Caring Hands, the number of homeless has doubled in Kent in recent years while the number aged 25 and under has tripled.
The reality of the dangerous circumstances facing these vulnerable people became visibly apparent over the summer by the tragic death of Samson Paine in Chatham town centre. Under the new legislation, individuals like Samson would be less likely to go under the radar and will be able to access greater support and advice.
Medway Council runs an annual survey of rough sleepers, but it is conceded that it is very difficult to track so it is likely the number is often higher than documented. Councils like Medway never want to have people lose a home and many do all they can to prevent and house those who do become homeless, but this Bill will help to strengthen powers and duties aimed at those in need.
On the Bill, Kelly said,
“This legislation is most welcome and highly important to help remedy the growing homeless crisis we have across the country. There is indeed much more we need to do and out local authorities need the powers to further prevent homelessness before it comes too late, and I am confident this Bill will go some way towards this target.
“It is this prevention rather than cure that needs to be the focus and priority. We should see anyone who faces homelessness as a priority, regardless of their status or local connection, whether you are a single adult or a young family – this is about closing the loops.”
“In the civilised, compassionate society we live in there should be no one who is forced to lose their home and sleep rough night in night out. I will be supporting this Bill throughout its journey through the House of Commons and I look forward to working with Medway Council to help deliver these proposals locally.”
The Government has pledged to support the Bill which welcome news to Kelly and the majority of Members across the House. Kelly’s speech is available to watch on Parliament TV via http://parliamentlive.tv/Event/Index/b59e711c-0bd8-4391-8980-c36eda459b9c