It’s a sad reality that during difficult times in life, for various reasons, members of our community can find themselves on the streets.
It hurts to see instances of rough sleeping and homelessness affecting our community, particularly during these cold winter months.
The current housing crisis has resulted in more people sleeping rough in Hobsons Bay, with limited access to support.
When you see people experiencing these tough times, you might ask yourself ‘what can I do to help?’
While it may seem overwhelming, support can actually start with a few simple steps.
Council’s online rough sleeping reporting tool is a simple way to inform us of someone sleeping rough.
People experience different types of homelessness, from sleeping rough on streets, to living in cars or even couch surfing.
The tool quickly alerts council staff to instances of rough sleeping, and can be the first step in helping connect that person with relevant services for support.
While jumping online and filling out a quick form might seem straightforward, it could make a real difference to someone’s experience.
This year, every case reported to us through the rough sleeping tool has received follow-up support from local housing service, Latitude. Reports do not go to the police, only to agencies like Latitude for support.
It cannot be overstated just how important organisations like Latitude are to our community.
It is incredibly important to have somewhere people can go for support, often at some of the most difficult times in their lives.
And not just somewhere to go for help, but to have people with both the care and expertise to provide meaningful support and assistance.
While the online rough sleeping tool plays just a small part in what can sometimes be a long process, it’s an important step in identifying those who may need help and aren’t sure where to find it.
Times are tough, but as a community it’s on us to help where we can. So if you or someone you know is doing it tough, please know help is available.
For more information about homelessness in Hobsons Bay, and to access the rough sleeping reporting tool, visit hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/communitysupport
