On World Homelessness Day 2025 (10 October), Peterborough has been allocated £938,260 in additional Government funding to support people facing homelessness in the city. The funding is part of an £84 million national package announced by the Government to prevent and reduce rough sleeping across England.
The money will be distributed during the current financial year through the Rough Sleeping Prevention and Recovery Grant (RSPARG) for 2025/26. It will be used to prevent and reduce rough sleeping, stabilise current numbers, and support individuals with complex needs. The grant will also strengthen prevention services to ensure fewer people sleep rough before receiving help, enhance collaboration with the voluntary, community and faith sector, and ensure that local services are prepared for the winter of 2025/26.
Councillor Shabina Qayyum, Leader of Peterborough City Council, said:
“We are delighted with this Government announcement of even more money pledged to our city, nearly £1million – this time to tackle homelessness. Those who are threatened with homelessness and suffering from homelessness are some of our most vulnerable residents. This money will help them to rebuild their lives and find a safe, stable home. Ultimately, it will help save lives in our city.”
Councillor Christian Hogg, Cabinet Member for Housing and Regulatory Services, said:
“It is fitting that this money has been made available to us today, on World Homelessness Day and will provide a good uplift to the services we provide in the city tackling rough sleeping and helping to prevent homelessness.”
World Homelessness Day is observed internationally every year on 10 October. It aims to raise awareness about the needs of people who are experiencing homelessness and to promote action within local communities to prevent and reduce homelessness. The day also serves as an opportunity for governments, councils and charities to highlight local initiatives, announce policy changes and allocate funding to improve services.
The concept of World Homelessness Day began in 2010 following international discussions among professionals and volunteers working to address homelessness. Since then, it has been observed annually in more than 100 countries across all continents except Antarctica. The day provides a platform to celebrate good practice, measure progress and encourage collaboration between public, private and charitable organisations.
The funding for World Homelessness Day 2025 in Peterborough is intended to strengthen the city’s ongoing work to tackle rough sleeping and housing instability. Peterborough City Council continues to work with local charities, housing associations and community organisations to deliver both emergency and preventative services. These include outreach work, temporary accommodation, and support programmes that help people move into stable housing and employment.
The new Government grant will reinforce these existing efforts by increasing capacity and improving coordination across local agencies. It will also support initiatives designed to address the underlying causes of homelessness, such as mental health challenges, substance misuse and financial hardship.
World Homelessness Day is often used by cities to launch new projects, announce funding, and acknowledge the work of frontline staff and volunteers who provide essential services. In Peterborough, the timing of the announcement reflects the city’s continued commitment to addressing homelessness through partnership working and practical support.
Since its establishment in 2010, World Homelessness Day has encouraged cities around the world to use the occasion to review progress, share learning, and renew efforts to provide safe and sustainable housing solutions. The additional £938,260 for World Homelessness Day 2025 in Peterborough will help ensure that more people have access to the support they need and that local services are prepared to respond effectively to demand throughout the year.
