A MEETING to discuss how to better support homeless people in Southampton is to be held next month.

As previously reported, local businesses, organisations and residents came together last year to form Southampton Street Support Action Group in a bid to stop homelessness.

Now the group will be meeting on April 4 to give members an update on the work done so far and welcome new residents who want to pledge their support to the initiative.

Conference organiser Jo Ash said: “We firmly believe Southampton cares and that by working together we can help people move off the streets and into suitable, supported accommodation. Our charter sets out a vision where no-one needs to sleep rough or beg in Southampton. People deserve better, and this summit is about ensuring that happens.”

At the event, which will be held at Southampton Solent University at 4pm, participants will also watch a short film co-produced by university students to show behind-the-doors footage of the work done in Southampton to support homeless people.

Attendees will also receive updates on emergency accommodation, welcome bags for those accessing hostels and plans on how to increase the emergency bed provision for next winter.

This comes after charities, faith groups, and civic chiefs have all pledged to end homelessness in Southampton, after signing a charter promising to help those affected.

To take part in the meeting visit www.eventbrite.co.uk.