More than 300 people have avoided becoming homeless during the coronavirus pandemic thanks to intervention from Dudley Council, it was revealed today.

It comes on the eve of World Homeless Day this weekend. Since the pandemic took hold earlier this year, the service has continued to support people who were either worried about losing their home or in need of emergency housing.

While traditionally, in pre-pandemic times, a majority of the people would be asking for advice and support, the service is now seeing more people coming forward in need of immediate help.

Officers have found that those people have often been living temporarily with friends or family but due a change in circumstance, the arrangement has come to an end and they have nowhere immediate to stay.

Nearly all the people who have come forward in this or similar situations have been found a bed for the night and permanent accommodation.

Officers continue to work with those they have helped house to ensure they can retain their new home in the long-term. Councillor Laura Taylor, cabinet member for housing and community services, said:

"This weekend marks World Homeless Day and gives us all an opportunity to reflect on what has been a difficult year for so many. We’ve seen the face of our homelessness prevention service change in the last few months, with a large part of their work now focused on supporting those in need of immediate help.

"The team has responded and worked tirelessly to find people shelter and ensure no-one has to contemplate sleeping rough. I would urge anyone who is worried about losing their home or where they will be living long-term to get in touch so we can make sure they get the help they need as soon as possible.

"As we head towards the winter months and the colder weather takes hold, I would also appeal to the public to get in touch if they think someone is sleeping rough so the team can reach out and offer them the help they need to get off the streets."

Anyone at risk or becoming homeless or in need of support can call the homelessness prevention service via Dudley Council Plus on 0300 555 2345. People can report a rough sleeper via streetlink.org.uk or by calling 0300 555 0030.