At last week’s Central Hounslow Area Forum, Hounslow South Conservative Councillors welcomed the excellent work being done to tackle homelessness in the centre of Hounslow. An update provided by the Council’s “Street Homelessness Coordinator” Mr Bilal Dunoo outlined the work done by him and his team.
Currently there are 134 people in Hounslow classified as “rough sleepers” of which 48% are UK nationals. Often the main cause leading to rough sleeping has been attributed to psychological ill health which can add extra burdens on local hospitals, local authorities and the Police. Previously, rough sleepers have been found in Hounslow parks, car parks and even the Civic Centre surrounding grounds.
The Council’s aim has been to reduce such pressure and improve the well being of rough sleepers with the ambition of establishing a more formal hub, the closest being Shepherds Bush. However, there is a lack of outside help with only the Town Centre Trinity Church offering a drop in service but the meeting called for closer work and integration with places of worship on a pastoral basis.
Speaking after the update Councillors Pam Fisher, Lin Davies and Brad Fisher said, “We are happy to hear about the action being taken to address the problem of homelessness in the Borough. Closer integration with outside agencies is essential for us to know and respond effectively the scale and severity of the issue. Nevertheless, we as Hounslow South Councillors will do our part to help the homeless in any way possible and making sure they are looked after safely.”