Council spends almost £700k in bid to tackle temporary homelessness

South Tyneside's net spending on beating temporary homelessness jumped by 49 per cent in the past year - amid claims private providers are cashing in.

- by Gareth Crickmer

Figures show the borough council forked out £692,000 more to put a roof over people's heads than it received in funding support.

The government's Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) said the figure stood at £463,000 in 2023-24.

Council chiefs said they were doing all they could to keep costs down while supporting those in need.

Councillor Jane Carter, Lead Member for Housing and Community Safety, also called on the government to introduce a fairer funding mechanism.

She said: "We are committed to supporting residents facing homelessness and ensuring no one is left without shelter.

"Rising costs reflect growing demand, particularly in privately managed temporary accommodation.