Bedford Borough Council has expanded its housing team to help tackle homelessness and increase support services for rough sleepers with 22 new recruits.
“It’s going to speed up our efforts in housing and make sure we’re tackling these problems with a new team effort across the whole council,” said a council spokesperson.
The council says the recruitment marks a significant step forward in their ongoing efforts to prevent homelessness and rough sleeping and provide essential assistance to individuals and families.
Anna Robbani, Head of Housing, Homelessness and Customer Services, added, “I’m delighted to be joined today by 22 new recruits who share our passion for making a meaningful impact on the lives of Bedford Borough’s residents.
“These new roles range from caseworkers to specialists in social housing and private sector negotiation and show our dedication to delivering expert advice and support on homelessness-related issues.
“I’m really pleased that as a Council we’ve been able to bring forward this important initiative, to provide a lifeline to residents experiencing challenges or issues with their housing needs, and to help them access vital support, expertise, funding or opportunities to improve things for them and their families.”
The new recruits will now embark on a “comprehensive 6-week training programme” supported by specialists in housing law from the housing and homelessness charity Shelter.
Training will also include equality and diversity, supporting victims of domestic abuse and safeguarding from experts in both adults and children’s services.
Further advanced training and mentoring from senior colleagues will follow.
