Thesis
There are increasing numbers of rough sleepers across the Greater Manchester area, with seven of the 10 boroughs recording significant
increases in the numbers of rough sleepers between 2010 and 2015. In Manchester, this increase was 900%, from seven to 70 individuals sleeping rough over the period (and this number is almost certainly an under-estimate).
Investment
We are supporting a project called Greater Manchester Rough Sleeping (GMHP). The programme is an innovative programme designed to tackle homelessness in Greater Manchester. It works with entrenched rough sleepers over a three year period, giving them the intensive emotional and practical support they need to maintain successful tenancies, as well as help with addiction and other health issues, and support to access appropriate existing health, training and employment services.
The project is a partnership between Department for Communities and Local Government, GMCA, Shelter, Great Places Housing Group and The Brick. Bridges provides project finance and project management support.
Target Outcomes
The programme works towards individuals being able to sustain their tenancies, giving them the stability required to improve their health, gain access to training opportunities, and find and sustain employment. 323 rough sleepers have moved into accommodation; 324 (91%) have sustained the
accommodation for more than 3 months.
