Cheshire East Council has launched a consultation on its draft homelessness strategy.

This comes at a time when nationally there are 'unprecedented' levels of homelessness – pressures which are also being felt by many in the borough.

 In response, the council is taking a more 'people-focused' approach, with an emphasis on preventing homelessness before it occurs while also strengthening the support available for those who are.

Councillor Michael Gorman, chair of Cheshire East Council's economy and growth committee, said: "Now is the right time to continue with a bold approach to reducing homelessness and rough sleeping.

"However, tackling homelessness is not something we can do alone.

"It requires strong collaboration across sectors and communities.

"It's important to note, however, that this work has already started. As an example, the council has made significant progress in reducing rough sleeping in the south of the borough this year."

Councillor Gorman continued: "The Rough Sleeping Prevention Service, which is commissioned by the council and managed by YMCA Cheshire, launched in April and in its first four months offered accommodation to 79 individuals, with 19 already having successfully moved on to longer-term housing.

"A similar service for the north of the borough was launched last week and is also expected to deliver positive outcomes.

"This draft strategy is building on that work and really focuses in on how we can collectively support people experiencing homelessness.

"We are doing some outstanding work in this area, and I thank the officers who have led on this, and who continue to do so much to support some of our most vulnerable residents."

 The draft homelessness strategy and accompanying survey can be found here.