THE fight against homelessness in Blackpool has been boosted by a quarter of a million pounds in new funding.

Blackpool Council has been handed the third biggest grant in the north west as the Government announced grants worth £3.4 million for councils in the region.

It will support several local initiatives, such as the Homeless Action Team which works with vulnerable single people at risk of sleeping rough.

Council chiefs say the award is a reflection of the success of the council's homeless strategy and its commitment to tackling and preventing homelessness.

Cllr Sue Wright, portfolio holder for social services and health, said: "This new funding is excellent news because it demonstrates how highly we are regarded.

"The Government annually awards authorities that deliver, and Blackpool Borough Council delivers. We are always striving to look for new ways to improve the service.

"Our homeless strategy isn't just about housing, and bricks and mortar, but all the other issues that people need to progress forward.

"It's about access to key services and the support needed to get peoples' lives back on track. Our key message is that we can never give up on the most vulnerable."

Fylde and Wyre borough councils will also receive cash for homelessness projects. Wyre gets £21,000 and Fylde, £20,000.