HAMPSHIRE County Council has opened a public consultation on proposed changes to the support provided for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Views are being sought on proposals for moving away from providing support for those with less critical needs, and focusion the most vulnerable – which would include 24/7 supported accommodation to meet the needs of people who are sleeping rough, or at risk of sleeping rough.

The council’s homelessness support services comprise hostels and other supported accommodation, as well as community support services. The current services complement the support provided by district and borough councils who have a statutory duty to prevent and relieve homelessness.

Liz Fairhurst, executive member for adult social care and health, said: “As a consequence of the ongoing and significant financial pressures within adult social care and the growing demand for services, we are having to consider carefully how we spend the limited funding available to us, to ensure it goes to where it is most needed.

“We recognise how vital the right support is for those who find themselves homeless, or at risk of being so, and we have spoken to a range of organisations, to help us to find solutions on how best to provide support going forward within a reduced budget.“

The proposals set out options for potential savings of £1.8milion and include a continued spend of £2.4m on homelessness support to help those most in need.

Those with less critical needs would be helped to access other sources of information, advice and assistance.

Find out more at www.hants.gov.uk/aboutthecouncil/haveyoursay/consultations It will continue until Fridya, August 10.

Final proposals will be presented to Mrs Fairhurst for a decision in December.