Thank you to the Andover Advertiser for shining a light on Test Valley’s efforts to eradicate rough sleeping in the borough.

This has been brought into focus recently by the gentleman who has been regularly sleeping in town centre doorways. Outside the funeral parlour in Bridge Street and the former Edinburgh Woollen Mill shop before those units were boarded up by their owners – and more recently commandeering the front of the former Top Shop unit.

Although we’re unable to discuss the specific details of individual cases, considering the amount of interest, I can confirm that the council is providing significant support to this gentleman and have been doing so for quite some time.

In line with our policy on homelessness, we will always make an offer of emergency accommodation to any local person we are aware is sleeping rough and we have had some good success recently in encouraging people to come inside and stay inside. Especially during the pandemic.

Unfortunately, not every offer we make is accepted. That can be for a number of complex reasons, but we will always continue to offer help and support – engaging with a variety of different agencies.

Talking of supporting the most vulnerable members of our community. Test Valley and indeed, Hampshire County Council as the upper-tier authority continue to play an active role in the Homes for Ukraine scheme. Carrying out accommodation and DBS checks to enable sponsors to host refugee families – a number of which are already in the borough.

I was contacted last week about a Ukrainian family that has arrived in Andover. Consisting of mum and two children. Initially, there was an issue with both siblings attending the same school but after making representations on their behalf that was quickly rectified. The last thing this family needed after Dad was left behind to fight was the children being split up. It’s essential that we show compassion – and I know Andover will continue to open its arms to those fleeing the horrors of Putin’s actions.

Finally, may I wish all readers a very Happy Easter, and I hope that the message of the season – the triumph of good over evil – plays out in Ukraine.