REDDITCH has been identified as having one of the highest levels of homelessness in the region, according to figures released by housing charity Shelter.

According to the report, the number of homeless people in the West Midlands has increased by more than 2,500 to 24,000 in the last year, with Redditch coming in 11th for the highest rate of homelessness in the region.

Shelter says there are 81 people in Redditch in temporary accommodation, with another four people sleeping on the streets.

The figures show that one in every 1,007 people in the district are homeless.

Shelter has launched an urgent appeal calling on the public to support its frontline advisers as they work to help the growing number of people trying to find or keep their home.

Polly Neate, chief executive of Shelter, said: “On a daily basis, we speak to hundreds of people and families who are desperately trying to escape the devastating trap of homelessness.

"A trap that is tightening thanks to decades of failure to build enough affordable homes and the impact of welfare cuts.

“As this crisis continues to unfold, the work of our frontline services remains absolutely critical. We will do all we can to make sure no-one is left to fight homelessness on their own. But we cannot achieve this alone; we urgently need the public’s support to be there for everyone who needs us right now.”