Advice service aims to combat homelessness

A new service that allows people across Wolverhampton to access free advice will be set up in a bid to prevent homelessness, the city council has said.

It comes following a six-month pilot, which started in August, that enabled residents to access housing support at the Civic Centre or by phone.

The City of Wolverhampton Council said it saw "a reduced number of households experiencing homelessness, through earlier intervention and effective housing solutions".

It will now be expanded to include partnership working with the Private Rented Sector, Home Improvement Agency and Adult Services. It will also explore the option to provide digital access to the service for residents.

Councillor Steve Evans, the council's deputy leader said: "Often, residents facing the threat of homelessness do not get in touch with us until they reach crisis point.

"We always encourage residents to contact us earlier so we can support them with preventative measures, rather than having to find them temporary accommodation.

"We now want to fully establish an accessible, resident-focused Housing Advice Service that supports people to understand and navigate their housing options more easily, strengthens early advice and prevention - enabling households to resolve housing issues - and help residents sustain their tenancies and remain in suitable accommodation wherever possible."

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