Centrepoint, which runs four hostels in Sunderland, fears a decision by the local City Council, not to renew its contract, could leave the young homeless and the those most vulnerable without the support they need.
The charity has been informed that its funding would not be renewed by the local authority when its current deal comes to an end. However, council bosses have said a new service to prevent increases in the young homeless numbers will be put in place once Centrepoint’s contract finishes.
Centrepoint has said the council is cutting its £3million budget for contracts for housing provision for those most in need. It says this includes the £907,587 the charity receives each year, which is used to run the four homes, including one for young parents, physical and mental health support, education, training, preparation for work and support to move on.
Among the four hostels at risk of closure is a specialist service for young homeless people with dependent children.
Centrepoint has written to the council urging it to ensure that all of the young people affected by its decision secure appropriate support and accommodation before the contract ends.
It works with around 800 young people across the North East each year with a place to stay as well as “vital support” for young people to tackle the physical and mental health problems caused by homelessness and help to find a job, training or a route back into education.
Despite the cuts, Centrepoint says it will continue to run a hostel for looked-after children and care leavers, and continue its prevention work with groups vulnerable to homelessness.
Martin Gill, director of housing and support at Centrepoint, said,
“The impact of these cuts will be devastating. Vulnerable young people – including those exposed to the dangers of rough sleeping – will be left without the support they need, putting their futures at serious risk, but Centrepoint won’t give up on helping homeless young people in Sunderland.
Councillor Graeme Miller, cabinet member for health, housing and adult services, said: “A new service for helping the homeless and those at risk is being put in place as current contracts finish.
