Simon Danczuk slams Government's 'shameful' record on homelessness in Rochdale

Photo: Journeaux

Simon Danczuk

Rochdale MP Simon Danczuk has slammed Government welfare cuts after figures revealed that homelessness levels in the town have doubled in the last five years.

Official statistics show that the number of homeless people seeking temporary accommodation in the borough has increased significantly since 2010.

Speaking during a Work and Pensions debate in the House of Commons, Mr Danczuk echoed concerns raised by Rochdale based homelessness charity Petrus Community.

The organisation has highlighted Government welfare reforms including cuts to housing benefits, cuts to emergency payments and the the bedroom tax.

According to Petrus Community these changes have led to “disturbingly visible and steadily increasing examples of homelessness on the streets of Greater Manchester”.

Mr Danczuk said: “We have seen a shameful rise in homelessness in Rochdale since the Conservatives have been in power.

“This is without taking into account the number of ‘hidden homeless’ in our town who are dependent on the generosity of friends and family for somewhere to stay.

“The Conservatives like to present themselves as the ‘real party of working people’ and champions of the ‘home-owning democracy’.

“In reality, they will be remembered for welfare sanctions, the bedroom tax and the doubling of homelessness in communities like Rochdale.

“Millions of low and middle income families are just one missed paycheque away from losing their home. The Government needs to reverse these welfare cuts which act as a vital safety net to keep people off the streets.”