Amid worsening homelessness pressures in the capital, London Councils has hailed the launch of the London Charter to End Rough Sleeping.
The Charter was created by a pan-London coalition working to end rough sleeping, and enshrines principles and actions needed to tackle the issue. London Councils has been a key partner from the start, driving the project forward alongside homelessness charities, the GLA, and Bloomberg Associates.
More than 10,000 people were seen rough sleeping by outreach teams in London in 2022-23. Boroughs provide crucial frontline support to those sleeping rough and help for getting off the streets.
Cllr Darren Rodwell, London Councils’ Executive Member for Regeneration, Housing & Planning, signed up to the Charter on behalf of his borough, Barking and Dagenham. Pam Orchard, Chief Executive from The Connection at St Martin’s charity, attended Barking and Dagenham Council to collect Cllr Rodwell’s signature.
Cllr Rodwell said:
“The Charter is a shining example of London’s commitment to working together to end rough sleeping for good.
“Rough sleeping is dangerous and dehumanising. With homelessness pressures worsening in the capital, it is the most visible manifestation of a broken housing system.
“Strong partnerships and co-ordinated action are needed now more than ever before. Boroughs have a pivotal role to play, and I feel privileged to sign up to the Charter.”
Individuals, businesses, faith and community groups, charities or public bodies can go online to pledge their support for the Charter, to donate, or to volunteer their time. Visit the Charter’s website here.