pounds 8m to tackle homelessness

AN pounds 8m attempt to stop people - mostly young - ending up on the streets, was launched yesterday. Ministers aim to give advice and support to those who risk losing their homes or are already without shelter, writes Glenda Cooper.

The measure was announced as homelessness charity Crisis commemorated its 30th birthday and a couple of weeks before the Social Exclusion Unit is due to report to ministers on homelessness.

Voluntary groups nation-wide will receive cash and have key roles in the initiative unveiled by Hilary Armstrong, the housing minister, who said 205 projects, including thoseencouraging businesses to support charities, would benefit.

Ms Armstrong said: "This Government is determined to tackle homelessness and is committed to reducing the number of people sleeping rough to as near zero as possible," she said yesterday.