At The Ferry Project, we welcome the Prime Minister's commitment to end rough sleeping and recognise the urgency of taking meaningful action to support people experiencing homelessness.

No one should have to sleep on our streets. Behind every rough sleeping statistic is a person with their own story, challenges, aspirations and potential. We see every day the devastating impact that homelessness has on individuals, families, communities and public services. But we also see how lives can be transformed when the right support is available at the right time.

Whilst ambitious targets can help drive action and focus attention on this issue, achieving lasting change will require more than moving people off the streets. A home is the first step of the journey, not the final destination. Sustainable progress depends on investment in supported accommodation, affordable housing, mental health services, substance misuse support, employment opportunities and effective prevention services that stop people from reaching crisis point in the first place. It's a combination of housing and support that helps people sustain tenancies, regain independence and avoid returning to homelessness.

As an organisation working on the frontline of homelessness in Cambridgeshire, we stand ready to work alongside government, local authorities, housing providers, businesses, charities and communities to play our part. We know that ending rough sleeping is possible when there is genuine partnership, adequate resources and a commitment to addressing the root causes of homelessness.

Christmas is a time when many people reflect on the importance of home, family and belonging, we hope this commitment marks not just a seasonal response, but the beginning of a sustained national effort to ensure that everyone has access to a safe place to call home and the support they need to thrive throughout their journey.

The Ferry Project remains committed to supporting some of the most vulnerable members of our community and advocating for the systemic changes needed to create lasting solutions to homelessness.