Churches in Southampton are partnering to offer spiritual and practical solutions to homelessness in the city.

A prayer meeting was held last week at Central Baptist Church in solidarity with rough sleepers and those living in poor quality housing.

The Homelessness and Housing Awareness evening was organised by the Love Southampton coalition of local churches to deepen understanding around issues of homelessness.

Those present were encouraged to pray as well as support practical initiatives, like the Southampton Churches' Rent Deposit Scheme, a fund designed to support people on low incomes or in receipt of benefits to gain access to privately rented accommodation within the City of Southampton. Another initiative operating in the city is befriending to tackle loneliness and isolation.

Bishop Jonathan Frost, who Chairs Love Southampton's Council of Reference, commented: "Love Southampton Housing Group is keen to raise awareness of the problems surrounding homelessness in our city.

"We know that there are still many people who are without homes, struggling to pay their rent or in sub-standard accommodation and it is important that the churches play their part with the council and other local organisations, and work together to tackle these issues.

"I urge people to pray for those in need and support local practical housing solutions such as those which Love Southampton is supporting."