Tackling homelessness together – Derventio meets with Jonathan Davies MP

Derventio’s Assistant Director Strategy, Jackie Carpenter, recently met with Jonathan Davies MP for Mid Derbyshire to discuss key issues that impact so many people in our communities – including government homelessness funding, the future of social housing and the growing problem of digital exclusion.

The meeting highlighted the importance of sustained support for individuals who are facing multiple challenges, and Mr Davies praised Derventio’s work in leading the way.

Following the discussion, Mr Davies said:

Derventio Housing has an amazing story. It started as a night shelter and now has 700 units of supported housing across a dozen authorities. Their transformation started from realising that night shelters save lives, but they don’t stop residents from rough sleeping forever.

They’ve become an organisation that helps residents build resilience and equips them with the tools they need to manage the long-term challenges that lead to rough sleeping. They help people find work, education or training and improve their physical and mental health as well as supporting them to find a reliable home.

The last Labour government all but ended rough sleeping. Already, the new government has made almost £1 billion available in funding to councils for homelessness support.

It will also provide more early intervention in mental health issues, a key factor in rough sleeping for many. And renters’ rights are being strengthened, which will make housing more secure for millions of people who rent.

I’m hopeful that these will address some of the root causes of homelessness and rough sleeping. In the meantime, Derventio Housing is carrying out a vitally important role saving lives from being lost on our streets.