NEW figures show a rise in homelessness in South Lakeland.

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron said the statistics, gathered in autumn 2019, show 14 people are classed as sleeping rough.

The year before an official survey found there were none.

Of the 14 people classed as homeless six are under 25, Mr Farron said.

He is now calling for more investment in South Cumbria as there is no full-time homeless shelter.

“The churches and Manor House in Kendal operate a night shelter but this is only in the winter months,” he said.

“Homelessness is often a symptom of a number of problems.

“It’s a grim existence and no-one should have to be in that position.

"It’s not something you would expect in a community like South Lakeland.

“We are asking the government to use the funding available from the Supporting People scheme to open a full-time shelter.”

Supporting People funds services that provide housing related support to vulnerable individuals.

Funding can be used to make rent or mortgage payments, maintaining the security of a home and obtaining accommodation.

Services are available to vulnerable individuals who may have a mental health or substance misuse problem, offending behaviour, or are victims of domestic violence.

They may also have a learning difficulty, experience of rough sleeping and teenage pregnancy/parenthood.

Mr Farron also believes the new figures highlight a growing need for more affordable housing in South Cumbria which he has long campaigned for.

“Successive studies and reports show that hundreds of families who have grown up in this area are desperately in need of affordable housing of a decent standard," he said.

“Every week I have constituents contact me who either live in cramped or sub-standard housing or are being forced to move away from the area because of high house prices.

“We must keep working and campaigning to make sure every family has a decent affordable home to live in.”

Although Manna House in Kendal offers a number of helpful services to homeless people the night shelter currently only operates during the colder months.

“We have great people working in places like Manna House but we need more support,” Mr Farron added.

“There needs to be a shelter all year round.

“Most of the homeless people can be helped and want to seek permanent accommodation.”