Camden Council has been awarded £870,000 of government cash to help tackle homelessness in the borough.

The money, from the ministry of housing, communities and local government (MHCLG) is the highest awarded to any local authority.

The money will help the council employ more outreach staff, support people with complex needs and invest in the Housing First programme, which is provided by charity St Mungo’s.

It will also fund a women’s safe space co-ordinator, who will work with women on the streets.

Councillor Nadia Shah, cabinet member for community safety, said: “We are delighted to receive the additional funds from the MHCLG, not only as acknowledgement of the effective approach being taken to support rough sleepers in Camden but also as recognition of the commitment of our officers.

“We have seen the harm caused by increasing levels of rough sleeping in the borough in recent years and the increase in high risk street activity which impacts on our communities. The council is committed to tackling the long-term issue of rough sleeping and supporting vulnerable individuals who find themselves in this predicament.”