COUNCILLORS have backed a new project aimed at tackling rising homelessness in York.

New figures have revealed the number of homeless people in the city rose by 40 per cent, from 130 to 183, last year.

The Homelessness Prevention Service is to provide practical help to those in danger of losing their accommodation due to financial problems or other housing-related difficulties.

As reported in The Press on Saturday, the service – which will see staff visit people in their homes and drop-in surgeries held across the city – will be launched at the National Railway Museum on Wednesday.

Coun Tracey Simpson-Laing, City of York Council’s cabinet member for health, housing and adult social services, said the increasing homelessness rates in York were “staggering”.

She said: “We’re pleased to be working in partnership with the York Housing Association to provide this service, which is going to be an invaluable free support network for anybody renting private or social housing and for residents with mortgage worries.”