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Plea to protect homeless during outbreak

Tuesday, 24 March 2020 14:34

By Ed Oldfield, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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Torbay Council are seeing increased demand

An urgent appeal has gone out to find suitable places for people who are homeless during the coronavirus outbreak.

Torbay Council says it has a number of homeless people with nowhere to go and others in unsuitable accommodation.

A spokesperson said: “We need your help to protect human life.”

The council says its Housing Options Team is seeing increased demand for permanent and temporary places due to people becoming homeless as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.

The spokesperson said:  “People who live with their vulnerable friends, relatives, colleagues may need to move out to protect their loved ones, some only temporarily.

“We also have people that were already in temporary accommodation and people rough sleeping that we need to move.

“Ideally we are looking for permanent homes for our clients but at the very least we need ensuite rooms.

“We are really keen to help support small businesses through this time, do you have ensuite rooms we can use?

“If you have a property to let we will ensure claims for benefits are submitted, we will pay a deposit and rent in advance even if you qualify for a mortgage holiday, we will also provide a dedicated point of contact for you and can provide on-going support for your tenant.”

Anyone who can help is asked to call Lisa Furse on 07909 937582 or email lisa.furse@torbay.gov.uk.

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