Housing First is an effective way of tackling and preventing rough sleeping for people whose homelessness is compounded by serious mental health issues, drug or alcohol dependency, or a history of trauma. It does this by providing ordinary settled housing alongside intensive, person-centered support. The Government has recognised the role Housing First can play in tackling rough sleeping, with £28 million invested in three city region Housing First pilots and a commitment to further roll out.

Our report Close to Home makes the case for a national Housing First programme, and draws on recent learning to map out what this should entail.