A “TRAILBLAZING” £710,000 grant to support the region’s homeless people and those at risk of losing shelter has been secured across five North-East council areas.

The Tees Valley Combined Authority (TCVA), which includes Darlington, Stockton, Redcar and Cleveland, Middlesbrough and Hartlepool councils, is set to launch a homelessness prevention programme for those in crisis.

Two housing associations will also bolster the two-year scheme designed to address housing-related problems and offer holistic support to prevent more people from living on North-East streets.

A £710,094 share for the region from a Department for Communities and Local Government homelessness prevention funding pot is one of only 28 successful grant bids from 122 applicants.

Councillor Mick Thompson, executive member for communities and public health at Middlesbrough Council, said: “This is an excellent example of partners working together to secure over £710,000 funding that will benefit the Tees Valley.

“We are looking forward to working with our partners to build an evidence base on ‘what works’ to prevent homelessness and share best practice.

“This approach is forward-thinking, ambitious and will demonstrate an effective partnership.”

Middlesbrough Council will lead the project and has confirmed that preparation is already underway to ensure the scheme will launch across the TCVA area in April.

Ian Wardle, chief executive at housing developer and landlords, Thirteen, said: “This extra money will help identify people at risk of homelessness as early as possible.

“It will also improve residents’ lives by offering advice, support and opportunities from finding a job to building their resilience and independence.”