Council explores ways to tackle city's homelessness

Gloucester City Council said there had been a rise of unauthorised camping across the city

A council is to explore ways to respond to unauthorised camping and homelessness after a consultation was given the go-ahead.

The need for Gloucester City Council to provide a clearer policy was highlighted following a recent incident in the city's Kings Walk car park, where a group was moved after numerous complaints about anti-social behaviour.

The consultation comes as YMCA Cheltenham said it had housed more people across the county over the past year than any time in its 170 year history.

Councillor Rebecca Trimnell said they want to "support rough sleepers" while also balancing the needs of the wider community and businesses.

"If an unauthorised encampment appears in the city, our first priority will be to work with those living there to make sure they are safe and aware of the support available," she added.

Recommendations could include allowing rough sleepers to remain temporarily, if those involved engage with the council and wider support services, or removing people if the camping is impacting businesses, residents or the community.

Gloucester City Council said any action to remove people will be handled sensitively, with alternate accommodation and access to mental health, addiction and other support offered to those affected.

Joseph Main from YMCA Cheltenham said it had provided housing for 843 people between 2024 and 2025

YMCA Cheltenham said it had provided housing for 843 people from the county - including 278 children and young people, between 2024 and 2025.

It said it had also provided 2,748 people with local food support services.

YMCA Cheltenham said latest government figures showed a record 172,420 children were staying in temporary accommodation, 238 of those living in Gloucestershire.

Joseph Main, chief executive of YMCA Cheltenham, said the past year had seen a "worrying rise in poverty and family homelessness across the UK", a situation "exacerbated by the economic challenges facing families".

"From inflation to rising utility bills. This puts financial strain on both people and charities as operational costs increase while donations reduce," he added.

The proposed council consultation, which is open for key partners, is expected to begin later in November.