Strategy to cut homeless numbers

A strategy to deal with homelessness in Norwich over the next three years is due to be discussed by councillors in the city.

It aims to foster co-operation between the council and housing associations to help prevent people becoming homeless in the first place.

Better use of the present housing stock and improved temporary accommodation are also included.

The strategy goes before Norwich City Council on Wednesday.

The council's executive committee is being recommended to adopt the 47-page Greater Norwich Homelessness Strategy 2007-10.

Other recommendations in the strategy are that voluntary groups should be more widely consulted over homelessness issues and that the council needs to work with landlords, the probation service, prisons and social services to help cut homelessness.

In July this year the council announced that it was planning to build the first council homes in the city for almost 20 years.