Eastbourne railway station to be ‘monitored daily’ after becoming ‘hotspot for rough sleeping’
Eastbourne railway station is to be ‘monitored daily’ after becoming a ‘hotspot for rough sleeping’, Eastbourne’s MP has confirmed.
EBC said the task force had ‘cleared and undertaken a deep-clean’ of the area outside the railway station which has been occupied by rough sleepers in recent months.
In an update on January 7, Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde stated that the railway station would be monitored daily and that a campaign would be launched to encourage people to donate directly to vital local charities supporting those experiencing homelessness.
The Eastbourne MP said: “Stakeholders will continue to monitor the station daily to keep the site clear in the interests of public safety, while ensuring signposting and support is offered to those sleeping rough.
️”Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) accommodation remains active for the rest of this week - this means all those sleeping on the streets will be offered emergency accommodation in this period. Any concerns about rough sleepers can be reported via Streetlink (see link in comments).
“The Rough Sleeper Initiative team will continue to provide outreach services three times a week, offering practical support and advice to help people access accommodation and other essential services.
“In the coming weeks, a campaign will be launch to encourage people to donate directly to vital local charities supporting those experiencing homelessness, as this is more effective than giving change directly.
“Eastbourne Borough Council will also be exploring future remodelling of the train station site to improve the area as an important gateway for visitors to Eastbourne.”
A spokesperson for Eastbourne Borough Council added: “The station has become a ‘hot spot’ area for rough sleepers over the last few months due to the station providing shelter and opportunities for begging.
"However, there are serious concerns about public safety, not least the sanitary conditions in the area used by rough sleepers.”
"At this time, the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is activated, meaning the rough sleepers are entitled to SWEP accommodation.
"This also gives our officers the opportunity to engage and support people into longer term accommodation.
“These are usually people with complex needs. However, the current rough sleepers at the station have refused all offers of support and accommodation to date - most need wrap around support, including mental health and addiction support, but again, many will not engage fully with this.”
“Our specialist team will continue to work with partners to prevent rough sleeping and homelessness in Eastbourne.
If anyone has concerns about rough sleepers they believe are unknown to the council, these can be flagged at: www.streetlink.org.uk/.