Mayor of London Sadiq Khan today announced plans for a £50m fund to help homeless people, including former rough sleepers and victims of domestic abuse, by delivering properties specifically earmarked for people needing to move on from hostels and refuges.

The accommodation funded by the Mayor will run on two-year tenancies to homeless people ready for independent living.

In response Jon Sparkes, Chief Executive of Crisis, said: “Tragically, homelessness and violence against women are inextricably linked, so this fund to help former rough sleepers and victims of domestic abuse is incredibly important. For everyone the causes of homelessness are complex, but homeless women often have distinct circumstances and needs and are often particularly vulnerable.

“With the loss of private tenancy being the number one cause of homelessness in London, accounting for 40% of cases, extended two year tenancies announced today will allow many homeless women to leave behind potentially dangerous situations and go into secure situations where they can begin to rebuild their lives.”