Today more than ever, homelessness can affect anyone at any time.

Tackling homelessness and rough sleeping before it reaches crisis point is a key priority for us.

We have published our draft Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2024-2030 and are seeking input from the public to help shape the final version.

On average, within Torbay there are 140 households in temporary accommodation and approximately 30 rough sleepers at any one time. More than one in four households in Torbay privately rent, with an increasing trend of homelessness from private rented accommodation.

The strategy focuses on preventing and relieving homelessness and sets out how we want to do things differently, by taking a more proactive approach.

The draft Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy aims to make:

• Homelessness a rare occurrence by increasing prevention and earlier intervention at a community level.
• Homelessness as brief as possible by improving temporary and supported accommodation so it becomes a positive experience.
• Experience of homelessness unrepeated by increasing access to settled homes and the right support at the right time.

To ensure the final version of the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy meets the needs of anyone who is at risk of becoming homeless, we are keen to hear from those with lived experience. This could include people who have experienced homelessness in the past, have been threatened with homelessness or who are currently homeless. Anyone who works to support homeless families and individuals are also encouraged to share their thoughts and to let us know if there are any other areas it needs to focus on.

Homeowners, private landlord tenants and those living with friends or family can also contribute, as homelessness can affect anyone at any time.

Cllr Alan Tyerman, Cabinet Member for Housing and Finance at Torbay Council, said; “Everyone deserves good quality, safe and secure housing, though more people experience homelessness and rough sleeping in Torbay than we want.

“Through the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy we want to ensure that we are equipped to support people in the best way we can – before they fall into crisis.

“Having feedback from people who have experienced homelessness or who work to support families and individuals will help to ensure that the strategy is fully informed by those with lived experience.

“Ultimately with the support of our partners and the whole community we want to achieve better outcomes for people facing and dealing with homelessness”.

How to get involved

• Visit the consultation webpage, read the supporting documents and complete the survey.
• From Friday 19 July, complete a paper copy of the survey in one of the following libraries: Torquay, Paignton, Brixham and Churston.
• Speak to one of the community organisations that support homeless families and individuals.

The consultation closes on 23 August 2024.

Read the draft Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy and share your thoughts. 

Homelessness help

If you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, the advice from us is to get in touch as early as possible.

• Housing Options: 01803 208723 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm)
• Emergency Line: 0300 456 4876 (out of hours – homeless only)

Find more information on homelessness. 

If you find someone sleeping rough, please report through StreetLink.