A Banbury resident is petitioning the House of Commons in a bid to ‘end homelessness’.

Alexandra Harwood has launched the petition suggesting the Government adopts the Housing First model used in Finland, which says permanent housing based on a normal lease is a fundamental solution for each homeless person.

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The petition to end homelessness in the UK says: “There are currently 320,000 homeless people in the UK, that’s one in 201 Brits.

“An increase of 4% last year. Especially in the current climate is it so important to support the most vulnerable in society.

Oxford Mail:

“The Housing First project run by Finland has been proven to help reduce and eradicate homelessness.”

During lockdown, local authorities were ordered to find accommodation for rough sleepers to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

In Oxford hotels and colleges have provided temporary accommodation to support the city council in its work and this has led to a big reduction in the number of people sleeping rough.

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Ms Harwood added: “The Housing First Model was adopted by Finland in 2008 and has led them to almost completely eradicate homelessness - this model is incredibly important and can change many lives.

“Due to coronavirus it is thought the homeless population will only increase, these people need help, they need support, and at this time especially they need to be supported.”

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So far the petition has 209 signatures - if it reaches 10,000 signatures the government will respond and at 100,000 it will be considered for debate.