HOMELESSNESS was at the centre of a recent question and answer session with Swindon Borough Council.

Facebook users were invited to ask council officers any question on key issues surrounding the topic. They were promised helpful and constructive answers.

The local authority was quizzed about how people facing housing difficulties are prevented from becoming homeless in the first place – with the council pointing out much of the work it does is largely unknown because goes on behind the scenes.

Officers explained how they liaise with landlords or family members to find solutions to housing problems and make people aware of any benefits they are entitled to. It was also noted people will be helped to address any outstanding rent arrears.

Cabinet member for housing and public safety councillor Cathy Martyn said: “We always strive to be as open and honest with residents as possible, and we thought the Facebook Q&A would be a good way of engaging with people and helping them to get a better understanding of our homeless provision.

“I would like to thank everybody who submitted a question and I hope we were able to answer it to their satisfaction.”