A COMMUNITY project in Wisbech has been handed a �250,000 grant to ensure that nobody is forced to sleep on the streets for more than one night.

The Ferry Project was given the cash to adopt ‘No Second Night Out’ - a scheme that aims to get rapid help to homeless people.

The grant will enable an existing night shelter to accept anyone in need of emergency accommodation. The fund will also help people access education and training opportunities, allowing them to regain their independence.

Keith Smith, director of the Ferry Project, said: “Our theme for this year is rescuing dreams and reviving aspirations.

“This grant will give some of the most vulnerable people in our community a safe place to sleep when they are at their lowest ebb.

“It will enable us to help them believe there is a hope for their future and start dreaming again.”

The Wisbech charity is one of 19 across the country that have benefited from the grant, which is part of an �8m pot being awarded by the Homelessness Transition Fund.

The �20m independent Fund was set up to support the Government’s rough sleeping strategy ‘Vision to end rough sleeping: No Second Night Out nationwide’.

Administered by umbrella organisation Homeless Link, the Fund received 190 applications from charities wanting to protect key homelessness services and adopt initiatives like No Second Night Out.

Housing Minister Grant Shapps said: “When economic times are tough, protecting the most vulnerable in society becomes even more important.

“That’s why we have dedicated �8 million to extend No Second Night Out outside the capital and make sure that anyone who finds themselves on the streets quickly gets the help they need.

“I’m delighted that vulnerable people in Wisbech and Fenland have �250,000 of extra help to make sure that they will never need to spend more than one night sleeping rough.

“A safe, warm place to stay is something that everyone should be able to rely on.”