City welcomes nearly £1million on World Homelessness Day

Today, on World Homelessness Day (10 October), Peterborough has been chosen for an additional £938,260 of Government funding to support those in our city facing homelessness.

The money – which is part of an £84m national package - has been pledged to help people in Peterborough who feel rough sleeping is their only option. It is money which will be spent this financial year, though the 2025/26 Rough Sleeping Prevention and Recovery Grant (RSPARG). The total package includes:

• Prevent and reduce rough sleeping, stabilising current numbers and supporting individuals with complex needs.
• Strengthen prevention services, ensuring fewer people sleep rough before accessing help.
• Enhance collaboration with the voluntary, community and faith sector (VCFS).
• Prepare for winter 2025/26, ensuring services are ready to respond to seasonal pressures.

Councillor Shabina Qayyum, leader of Peterborough City Council, said: “We are delighted with this Government announcement of even more money pledged to our city, nearly £1million - this time to tackle homelessness. “Those who are threatened with homelessness and suffering from homelessness are some of most vulnerable residents. This money will help them to rebuild their lives and find a safe, stable home. Ultimately it will help saves lives in our city.” Councillor

Christian Hogg, cabinet member for housing and regulatory services in Peterborough, said: “It is fitting that this money has been made available to us today, on World Homelessness Day and will provide a good uplift to the services we provide in the city tackling rough sleeping and helping to prevent homelessness.”