Dudley’s housing boss is thanking residents for their generosity in helping to make a difference for people at risk of becoming homeless.

So far, people have donated nearly £1,600 through Change into Action, which encourages people to make an online donation rather than giving money to people asking for change on the streets.

Donations have been used to support people at risk of becoming homeless or those who are already rough sleeping. So far appliances and furniture including single beds, microwaves, cookers and fridge freezers have been purchased to help people start their new lives.

These items have been purchased at the point when people have spent a period of time in supported housing, learning valuable life skills, to help them move on to independent living. The recipients have included young and older people. Councillor Laura Taylor-Childs, cabinet member for housing and community, said:

"We know times are challenging for many people so it is heart-warming to know borough residents have given what they can to help someone who is less fortunate than themselves.

"As an authority, through our homelessness prevention team, we work tirelessly to support people who are at risk of losing their home or who have found themselves in an emergency situation with nowhere to stay.

"The donations through Change into Action can enhance the support available and offer that helping hand to someone in need. It has a more positive impact than giving change to someone on the streets. Much of the money donated so far has now been used so if anyone can help by donating, please do and help make a difference to someone’s life.

"We know that households in Dudley have experienced a range of pressures on their finances and we only urge people to donate to the scheme if they are financially able to do so. We will continue to help those most at need through our homelessness and supported housing services."

Money donated by Dudley borough residents via the Change into Action website is received by Dudley Council for Voluntary Service. It works with the council and its delivery partner Churches Housing Association of Dudley and District, a small charitable housing association based in Dudley, to distribute the donations.

To make a donation or to find out more go to the Change into Action website which can also be used to report the location of anyone that the public thinks is sleeping rough so that they can be connected to local support services.

Rough sleepers can also be reported by calling Dudley’s rough sleepers helpline 0300 555 0030.