Reading Council - ways to tackle homelessness

The homeless support services work to end rough sleeping in Reading by tackling both accommodation needs and multiple disadvantage.

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Through the Reading Street Support Network, the council works in partnership with other statutory agencies, local charities, faith groups and community organisations that can provide food, support and accommodation.

The council’s housing needs service offers housing advice to prevent and relieve homelessness and can help people into long term accommodation through initiatives like our deposit guarantee scheme.

If you or someone you know is at risk of becoming homeless, contact 0118 937 2165 or 01344 786512 for advice.

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Alternatively, email: housing.advice@reading.gov.uk.

The Streetlink app can be used to notify the council's partner St Mungo's of rough sleepers.

The outreach service from St Mungo’s then offer him a hot drink and a bed for the night.

Willow House is Reading's hub for single homeless people, run by the Salvation Army.

They are given an emergency bed, a hot breakfast and talks to them about his housing options.

The Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is a national programme that ensures extra beds are available when the forecast temperature is below zero degrees for three nights in a row.

Anyone at risk of sleeping rough can access those beds by going to www.streetlink.org.uk or calling 0300 500 0914.

If you are concerned about someone sleeping rough, you can refer them to local services through the Streetlink website www.streetlink.org.uk, by calling 0300 500 0914 or by downloading the Street Link App.

Information goes straight to our St Mungo’s outreach team to locate them and support them off the streets.

If you want to donate then the Street Support Network can connect you to charities that need time, money or goods.

Visit www.streetsupport.net/reading/.