People sleeping rough across West Yorkshire could be offered a pathway off the streets by Christmas after a £3.7 million investment was announced by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.
The funding package, unveiled by Mayor Tracy Brabin on Monday, aims to provide accommodation and specialist support for people facing the most complex challenges linked to homelessness and rough sleeping.
Government figures indicate that at least 141 people are currently sleeping rough across West Yorkshire on any given night. The new funding is intended to help local authorities and support organisations provide immediate interventions ahead of the winter months.
The investment forms part of a wider nationwide initiative designed to reduce rough sleeping and ensure more people have access to safe and stable housing. It also supports wider regional ambitions to tackle homelessness and address long-term housing pressures.
The £3.7 million fund will be distributed in partnership with local authorities across West Yorkshire, enabling tailored local responses that address the specific needs of people experiencing homelessness.
The programme will focus not only on providing accommodation but also on delivering targeted support for individuals with complex needs, helping them move towards longer-term stability and independence.
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. This is a positive step towards ensuring people experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping can access the safe accommodation and support they need.
“Together with our partners, we are committed to strengthening local efforts to support people experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping.”
The latest funding announcement is a short-term measure designed to accelerate support before Christmas, while also complementing longer-term plans to tackle homelessness across the region.
The Combined Authority is currently developing a strategic regional response to homelessness and rough sleeping, backed by £10 million secured through West Yorkshire’s first Integrated Settlement. Leaders hope the combined investment will strengthen prevention measures, improve access to accommodation, and create more sustainable routes out of homelessness.
By working closely with councils and local partners, the authority aims to ensure that people experiencing rough sleeping can access the support services they need and move into safe, secure accommodation.
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