There has been an increase of almost two thirds in the number of people sleeping rough inCardiff over the past two years.
The Wallich – Wales’ leading homelessness and rough sleeping charity – says the “alarming” figures have shown that last month they were helping 28 people each day who were rough sleeping.
Two years ago that figure was just 12.
And in the first two weeks of November the charity’s Rough Sleepers Intervention Team have helped 31 people per day.
Pressure on authorities has effect on funding
They say that the numbers of rough sleepers needing support in Cardiff on a daily basis has increased 64% since October 2013.
Chief Executive Antonia Watson said: “This rise in rough sleeping has coincided with significant pressure on Welsh Government and local authority funding, which has had a knock-on effect on the funding we receive to carry out our vital work supporting vulnerable people.
“The findings of this report are very worrying, particularly in the face of potential further funding cuts in 2016/2017.
“The Wallich is committed to looking for innovative ways of dealing with increased need, with fewer resources and we will continue to work tirelessly to help those who need our support.”
Run seven days a week
The charity’s rough sleepers team provide hot food and drink, humanitarian aid, advice, referrals and routes into accommodation for street homeless people.
Run by staff members and volunteers they go out onto the streets of Cardiff seven mornings a week to locate and support people sleeping rough.
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Along with hot food and drink the team members provide emergency items of clothing and sleeping equipment as well as advice and assistance in accessing services to help those living on the streets into accommodation.
Winter is dangerous for rough sleepers
The charity say their service is a “vital safety net” for those sleeping rough who are either ineligible for, or too vulnerable to enter, accommodation provided by the council.
Between November and March, Cardiff council up their cold weather provision by providing extra beds.
The charity say that rough sleeping, especially during the winter months, can be extremely dangerous and constant exposure to cold and wet weather can lead to illness and even death for those living on the streets.
See- http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/number-people-sleeping-rough-cardiffs-10496613
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