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Isle of Wight council does not encourage homeless people to buy tents and we do not have a policy to provide cash for that purpose (5 December, page 9). There have been three instances in the past year where workers in our 16+ Team, based in social services, have provided such assistance because specific young people have refused other, more suitable alternatives that have been offered. This is in no way connected to our duties under homelessness legislation and in each case, support continued with the individuals concerned to resolve their position.

However, as the article rightly pointed out, we are under increasing pressure to cope with a growing problem. The solutions we are seeking to develop are in partnership with the voluntary sector and based on good practice and sustainable outcomes.