People sleeping rough across Wakefield could be off the streets by Christmas following a multimillion pound investment aimed at tackling rough sleeping in the region.

Earlier this week, the Combined Authority, led by Mayor Tracy Brabin, announced that they were committing £3.7 million to provide accommodation and targeted support for rough sleepers across the region.

Working alongside local authorities, including Wakefield Council, the funding will support tailored local approaches that help people experiencing rough sleeping access the support they need.

Within Wakefield, the council has been allocated £535,691 from the Combined Authority’s fund to support the scheme.

The Combined Authority, led by Mayor Tracy Brabin, has committed £3.7 million to provide targeted support for rough sleepers across the region.

placeholder image — The Combined Authority, led by Mayor Tracy Brabin, has committed £3.7 million to provide targeted support for rough sleepers across the region.

Coun Ansar Hayat, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Health said: “This funding will help us to continue our work with partners to help rough sleepers in our district.

"We want to see vulnerable people moving away from life on the streets and to be able to access accommodation with the care and support they need.”

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire said: “I’ve always said everyone should have a warm, safe, and secure place to call home, and with the winter fast approaching, it’s only right we step in with support for people who need it most.

“Rough sleeping has become far too commonplace, and we must do everything we can to make sure nobody is forced to sleep rough in West Yorkshire”.