SPEAR
Kingston Council is advancing its strategy to reduce rough sleeping, an area where SPEAR Outreach Service provides front-door support and casework.
Kingston Council is set to open a new 14-bed unit providing 24-hour support for rough sleepers in January 2027, as part of its strategy to halve long-term rough sleeping. The council also plans to offer a more diverse range of accommodation options. A verbal update on these provisions was given to the Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Committee in November 2026.
SPEAR Outreach Service provides front-door response to rough sleepers, conducting welfare checks and offering casework. This service aligns with Kingston Council's broader commitment to reducing homelessness, which was outlined by Amie Rickatson, Housing Solutions and Support Lead, in November 2026.
Key facts
- Kingston Council aims to halve the number of long-term rough sleepers over the next three years. Source
- A new 14-bed unit offering round-the-clock support for rough sleepers is expected to open in January 2027. Source
- Kingston Council plans to enhance its accommodation for rough sleepers, offering a more diverse range of options. Source
- A verbal update on strategies for homelessness was given to the Kingston and North Kingston Neighbourhood Committee on 10 November 2026. Source
- Amie Rickatson, Housing Solutions and Support Lead, outlined the council’s commitment to reducing rough sleeping. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 11 November 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.