Wanneroo supports Homelessness Week

Homelessness Week runs annually during the first week of August and promotes a greater understanding of homelessness and how best to respond to it.

Mayor Tracey Roberts said the City recognises homelessness is an issue within the community and works with local organisations to promote their services to those who need support.

“Currently there are 105,000 people experiencing homelessness around Australia every night with more than 9,000 in Western Australia,” Mayor Roberts said.

“People often think that homelessness does not exist here in the City of Wanneroo but the facts show a different story,” she said.

“A number of people are experiencing hardship and finding themselves in vulnerable situations due to housing affordability, job losses and financial pressures from the current economic environment.

“Homelessness Week is a time to show that everyone counts. It is important to raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with being homeless as it could happen to anyone.

“Having access to housing is a basic human right that everyone deserves. The City aims to ensure homeless people are treated with dignity and respect and are provided up to date information on relevant agencies and community groups who can provide support.

“Unfortunately it is likely that the number of those experiencing homelessness or at risk will continue to grow and it is important that we work together as a community to tackle this issue.”

To address the growing incidence of homelessness and rough sleepers, the City is doing the following:

• Working with the City of Joondalup to develop a regional homelessness strategy.
• In February, the City participated in Registry Week conducted by RUAH Community Services to identify homeless people, link them to services and get a better understanding of their needs.
• Continuing to build capacity to respond to the issue of homelessness through the development of a new reporting and referral procedure and information guide to be used by City staff to ensure a consistent approach to assisting those in need.
• Working with local service providers to develop a collaborative approach to assist those who need assistance.

The City will also support Anti-Poverty Week from 16 to 22 October 2016 by organising activities aimed to highlight or overcome issues of poverty and hardship.

To find out how you can donate items or get support for homelessness, contact the City on 9405 5600.