HOMELESS people in Bromsgrove will not be abandoned even if the government pulls the plug on emergency lockdown funding, insist concerned council chiefs.

The Advertiser reported last month that, in accordance with government guidelines during the early weeks of the coronavirus outbreak, the district's homeless individuals had all been housed.

However, reports nationally indicate that the government's 'Everyone In' scheme is being shut down, meaning the end of temporary accommodation for rough sleepers.

Bromsgrove District Council, though, said last month it was looking at longer-term solutions for the area's homeless people and it has reiterated that stance despite the government funding possibly ending.

"At this stage it remains to be seen what decision will be made about emergency lockdown funding for rough sleepers," said Cllr Shirley Webb, whose portfolio covers homelessness.

"Whichever way it goes we will continue to support the residents we have been helping, together with anyone who might become a rough sleeper in the future.

"The end game is to get them into suitable longer term housing options just as soon as we are able to do that."

Thousands of rough sleepers across the country have benefited from emergency accommodation, including hotels, during the crisis.

Communities secretary Robert Jenrick pledged £3.2million to councils nationwide to help homeless people self-isolate.