FEWER people are ending up on the district’s streets, according to the latest council figures.

Just 20 households were deemed homeless and in priority need between April and July, compared with 64 for the same period last year.

The council has put this down to the housing options team preventing homelessness for 165 households, a 70 per cent increase on the same period last year.

However, at the end of July 50 households were in temporary accommodation, slightly up on the previous month.

The council is also negotiating with the Salvation Army to house rough sleepers over the winter, if the temperature is forecast to be below zero for three or more consecutive nights.

Previous emergency provision was based at the Braintree Emergency Night Shelter in the High Street, which was destroyed in an arson attack in February.

Patricia Newton, councillor responsible for housing, said the housing options team can help with landlord negotiations, benefits, debt advice, family mediation, and court actions.

She said: “It is increasingly important for households to retain their existing accommodation whenever possible.

"When a household does need alternative accommodation, the team can provide advice and assistance on accessing a home in the private rented sector, and, in appropriate circumstances, make a referral to supported housing projects.

"They also give advice about opportunities for placing more effective ‘bids’ for social housing.”