MORE needs to be done to tackle homelessness in South Lakeland, that is according to a Kendal-based community support group.

Manna House, on Aynam Road, is promoting Homeless Sunday tomorrow - a day urging people to show their concern for individuals affected by homelessness, challenging the conditions that create it and celebrating the work that tackles the problem.

Manna House supported 11 homeless people in October and November and has accommodated five people in its Winter Night Shelter since December.

These figures are 'shocking' for such a small, rural area, according to outreach and development worker Penny Severn.

Unlike people in cities who are seen on the streets, many people here sleep in cars or in tents, some are sleeping on an acquaintance’s floor or sofa.

The causes of homelessness are as varied as the people themselves, but Manna House is trying to come up with a solution.

Mrs Severn said: "It is so hard to accommodate people in this area; rents are high, it’s difficult to get social housing if you are on a low band on the waiting list and we find that it’s rare to get private landlords to accept people needing to use housing benefit to pay their rent."

Manna House is calling for more solutions to get people housed in the South Lakes area.

Staff are hoping to hear from private landlords who are happy to rent to those needing to use housing benefit.

Manna House has itself been flooded and is asking for donations and support to help the service get back on its feet.

They are still offering housing and benefits advice to the public, as well as drop-in lunches and support from both the United Reformed Church Hall on Highgate on Wednesdays and Fridays and from the upstairs of our usual premises on Mondays and Tuesdays.

There is a coffee morning held at the Town Hall in aid of Manna House and promoting homeless issues on Saturday, January 30 from 9.30am to 12.00 noon.