HOMELESSNESS services in Test Valley are set to receive a £55k boost next year from a local authority.

The money will be dished out from the authority’s Flexible Homelessness Support Grant provided by central government.

It includes £10k towards maintaining an outreach service and £45k funding for the supported housing provision at Bridge House in Andover, both run by hostel Two Saints.

This comes after a cabinet meeting on November 4 saw council chiefs unanimously back the funding for the next financial year.

Portfolio holder for housing and environmental health, Cllr Phil Bundy, said: "We know all too well how valuable these services are to those who need them, and in the midst of a global pandemic it is more important than ever before that we support those at risk.

"These services can transform people’s lives and help to get them off the street.

"It’s so easy to take for granted having a roof over your head, but the consequences of losing your home can have a catastrophic impact on people’s mental and physical health."

He added: "These are some of the most vulnerable individuals in our society and we will continue to do everything in our power to support them."

Previously, TVBC invested tens of thousands of pounds in homelessness services and outlined its commitment to ensuring no one who lives in the borough, who faces sleeping rough, will leave the council offices without receiving an offer of emergency accommodation.

The council also changed the way it works with people to prevent and relieve homelessness by focusing on their strengths and aspirations and working across partnerships to try to address the underlying issues that have led to the person losing their home.

Anyone concerned about their housing situation can contact the council’s housing service on 01264 368000 or 01794 527700.

People can report rough sleeping to the council through streetlink.org.uk.