Mendip District Council has received more than £250,000 funding to help rough sleepers across the area, and two Wells-based organisations are going to help deliver the services.

The Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government awarded the grant following a bid by the council, and was awarded thanks to the council's track record in tackling the issue.

Rough sleepers in the district are encouraged and empowered to resolve their situation, while addressing their personal needs.

The cash boost will enable Mendip to continue providing specific and tailored interventions, and to help fund a number of partners to deliver the services, including Mendip YMCA and Elim Connect, who are both based in Wells.

The council is committed to preventing rough sleeping wherever possible, and believes no one should have to sleep out.

There are currently 13 rough sleepers in the area (as at the last annual Rough Sleeper count/estimate, November 2019).

The average lifespan of a male rough sleeper is just 44 years old, compared with 76 in the general population.

In addition to the funding news, the council announced the launch of the Somerset Homelessness and Rough Sleeper Strategy 2019-2023.

Local authorities are required by law to publish their strategies, and an action plan setting out how they will deliver the priorities.

The focus of Somerset's strategy, which was undertaken with other districts in the county, is early intervention and prevention. Partnership working is also a strong feature.

Every year, around 1,600 households come to Mendip District Council as homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Housing need outstrips supply, and rents are going up often higher than the housing costs element of benefits.

Cllr Richard Pinnock, portfolio holder for housing services at Mendip District Council, said: "Prevention and early intervention are key here.

"It's about empowering people to remain in their home for the long term, or at least until a planned move is made.

"That's why the funding news, and the strategy launch, are so welcome. They will both contribute massively to the good work that's already underway in Mendip.

"Together they provide extra resources and a clear direction for us, and our multi-agency partners, to tackle this complex issue.

"Living in a rural district means this problem is less visible than in built-up areas. But it is out there.

"And behind every homeless person or rough sleeper, there is an individual story. No one should be without a place they can call home."

Are you, or someone you know, at risk of homelessness? Local services and support are available.

Call our Housing Options Team on 0300 303 8588 or make a homeless application online here.

Perhaps you're rough sleeping, or concerned that someone is rough sleeping in Mendip? You can make a referral to StreetLink either online or by contacting the rough sleeper referral line on 0300 500 0914.

Visit www.streetlink.org.uk. The more details and information provided, the better.