Massive increase in homeless

A 'help the homeless' placard

The number of homeless in the Borough of Rochdale has increased massively, by 163.16 per cent, in recent years as people struggle with tough economic times.

A new report shows the stark variations both nationally and within Greater Manchester.

Oldham saw an increase of just 8.2 per cent, significantly below the England average, however Tameside has been hit hard with a 95.74 per cent hike. Numbers increased by 4.49 per cent across the North-West as a whole.

Earlier this year a campaign group, 'Chill Out', started on the Rochdale Online Forum to put pressure on the Council following its decision to cut the provision of emergency beds.

A sleep out outside Rochdale Town Hall was planned in May but was postponed when the campaign groups' objectives were met in a meeting with senior councillors and council officers.

Homelessness is defined as in priority need of housing and accepted as homeless by the local authority.

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/70031/town-hall-sleepout-event-postponed