Exeter set to get nearly £457k to tackle homelessness this winter

Exeter is set to receive an additional £456,745 in government funding to help tackle homelessness and rough sleeping, following an announcement from local MP Steve Race.

The funding forms part of a nationwide £84 million package to support councils in preventing homelessness and providing targeted help for vulnerable individuals and families ahead of winter.

Exeter’s allocation includes £407,054 through the Rough Sleeping Prevention and Recovery Grant and £49,691 specifically for drug and alcohol treatment services under the Drug and Alcohol Treatment, Recovery and Improvement Grant.

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The investment is designed to strengthen early intervention, ensuring people at risk of losing their homes can access the support they need. It will also help provide tailored services for those experiencing long-term rough sleeping, including access to mental health care, substance misuse treatment, and sustainable housing.

Steve Race, Labour MP for Exeter, said the funding represents an important step in addressing the issue locally: “Homelessness and rough sleeping have become increasingly visible in cities like Exeter. Through the work of organisations such as Julian House and St Petrock’s, I’ve seen how properly funded, targeted support can help people rebuild their lives. I’m pleased the government is providing the resources needed to tackle this crisis.”

A spokesperson for Julian House told Exeter Today: “This additional funding is much needed after years of trying to tackle Exeter’s homelessness crisis on a shoestring. Julian House has been working with Exeter City Council for several years to provide outreach, accommodation and support for some of the city’s most isolated and at-risk people.”

“As winter approaches, our teams are already stretched incredibly thinly, demand is increasing and our local services are at capacity.  We very much hope that this injection of funding will lead to higher budgets for Exeter’s homelessness services from 2026, so that we and other local providers can give our clients the support they need to move towards long-term independence and security.”

The announcement coincided with World Homeless Day (10 October) and builds on the Labour government’s wider commitment to ending homelessness, which includes almost £1 billion of national investment this year and plans to expand social and affordable housing.

Homelessness remains a growing challenge across the country, with nearly 170,000 children currently living in temporary accommodation. In Exeter, local charities have reported increasing demand for emergency support, temporary accommodation, and outreach services.

Matt Downie, Chief Executive of Crisis, welcomed the additional funding: “This funding is very welcome, especially as winter approaches. Targeted support can make a big difference and help people take their first steps out of homelessness.”

The new funding is expected to help Exeter City Council and its local partners build on existing initiatives, strengthen collaboration with charities, and deliver more preventative measures to support those most at risk.