A ROUGH sleeper project in West Devon has helped 27 people since it started in March this year.

Those helped include 'entrenched' rough sleepers, people living rough for the first time and some individuals who were 'sofa surfing' and likely to end up on the streets. 

Most found alternative accommodation and many were given support with a range of other needs including health issues, alcohol and substance addiction and financial problems.

The South Devon Rough Sleeper Partnership is run by a number of homeless charities supported by West Devon Borough Council.

Cllr Robert Oxborough, the borough's community services chairman, said: 'People often don't think rough sleepers exist in predominantly rural areas like West Devon but there are people who end up living on the streets locally. It is heartening to hear how many individuals have already been supported by this scheme since it began in mid-March. I would encourage residents to help by letting us know if they see anyone sleeping rough by calling our hotline on 0800 151 3441.'

Three charities, Path, Shekinah and Encompass South West, work together across South Hams, West Devon and Teignbridge to help people living on the streets and those just a step away from doing so.

The project aims to give practical support to move people off the streets rather than supporting them to remain as rough sleepers.

The case worker for West Devon is Alan Marshall who works for Encompass South West.

He said: 'Rough sleeping is a difficult issue and those who end up sleeping on the streets often have complex needs. Through this project we are able to help in a practical way whether that means helping to find temporary accommodation, a deposit for a flat or even food parcels. What is also important is the support we can give when it comes to other needs which are often a barrier to people getting off the streets for good.'   

 The South Devon Rough Sleepers Partnership is funded by central government through a fund administered by Homeless Link and Transition Funding.

 The project will run for a further 12 months.