Arc contributes to bid for government homelessness funding

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A new government funding programme has been announced to help those given emergency accommodation during the coronavirus pandemic remain in long-term housing — and Arc has been working with Somerset West and Taunton council to secure a portion of this funding.

The Next Steps Accommodation Programme makes resources available to councils to help ensure 15,000 people continue to have a long-term safe place to stay. Somerset West and Taunton Council are currently bidding for a share of the funding — totalling £105 million —and, if the bid is successful, a portion of this funding will enable Arc to implement a range of projects across Somerset West, Taunton and Sedgemoor to help the local homeless population. These projects will include:

• Making adaptations to Arc properties to create wheelchair friendly rooms.
• Providing additional support for rough sleepers.
• Being awarded additional 'rent in advance' money, so Arc can help more people move into their own accommodation.