MP Speaks Out

“Thirteen homeless groups have lost their contracts with Rochdale Council,” he said, “and while I understand that no area is immune from Government cuts this should not become a Cinderella service. Helping the homeless and making sure people are not forced to sleep rough should be a Council priority service." Simon Danczuk MP

Rochdale's MP, Simon Danczuk has today posted an article on his website in which he speaks out about the growing homelessness crisis in the town.

Quoting figures obtained from the House of Commons Library, the MP states that homelessness in the Borough has increased by over 200% during the last year, confirming exactly what Chill-Out supporters have been saying.

The figures show that 160 people presented themselves to RMBC as homeless in 2011 as opposed to 53 in 2010.

Mr Danczuk also criticised the recent RMBC policy of directing funding to national charities rather than local service providers. "“I think organisations like Petrus and the Sanctuary Trust hostel have the local knowledge and understanding of our town’s needs to deliver a better service,” he said. “Developing innovative local service models is the best way forward.”"

Chill-Out will be extending an invitation to Mr Danczuk to join us on 29th May.