The Homelessness Reduction Bill, sponsored by Conservative MP Bob Blackman, passed its Second Reading in Parliament on Friday 28th October.
The proposed law, backed by campaigners including Crisis and St Mungo's, will transform the help available to homeless people right across the country.
Steve Brine, a supporter of the Bill, said: "As the law currently stands, homeless people who approach their council for help can be turned away to sleep on the street. We want a new law which would help to prevent people from losing their home in the first place and make sure all homeless people can get help when they need it, whilst continuing to protect families with children from homelessness.
"Local people here in Winchester will be all too familiar with the effects of homelessness, and will know of the excellent work being carried out by Winchester Churches Night Shelter, Trinity and our relaunched Spare Change for Real Change campaign.
"This law will be the next step, and as it moves onto Committee Stage, I am particularly pleased as a Minister that this has Government support."
Pictured; Steve Brine at the relaunch of Spare Change for Real Change this summer (photo courtesy of WCC)
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Find out more about the progress of the Bill here