WYRE Forest 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 Wyre Forest coming in 5th for the highest rate of homelessness in the region.

Shelter says there are 211 people in Wyre Forest in temporary accommodation, with another four people sleeping on the streets.

The figures show that one in every 468 people in the district are homeless, meaning only Birmingham, Coventry, Rugby and Walsall have a higher rate of homelessness.

Nationally, Wyre Forest has the 101st highest rate out of 321 local authorities.

Councillor Ian Hardiman, cabinet member for housing, health and wellbeing at Wyre Forest District Council, said: “The latest Shelter report comments on figures from 2017. Since then a law change has taken place with the Homelessness Reduction Act. This introduced a different way of tackling homelessness with an emphasis on prevention.

“We are aware that social housing is in very short supply so we work with people who are at risk of becoming homeless to help them remain in their current home. If this isn’t possible we help find alternative accommodation in the private rented sector or by exploring other housing options.”

“If anyone needs advice on their housing options, are threatened with homelessness or are homeless, please contact our housing options service on 01562 732928.”

Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier has been approached for comment.