Taunton Deane MP Jeremy Browne has visited Shelter Somerset in Taunton to meet the charity’s staff and people accessing the local drop-in advice sevice.

Shelter Somerset helps people with a wide range of housing problems, from mortgage arrears to problems with their landlords.

Shelter’s advisers let people know what their rights are and explain their housing options and Shelter Somerset can also represent clients in court on a range of housing issues.

Housing problems, however, rarely exist in isolation.

People who find themselves in a situation where they need help from Shelter are usually experiencing a wide range of problems which have led them to that point.

As such Shelter Somerset has expanded its services in order to provide specialist advice on debt problems and welfare benefits, so people can access help for a wide range of issues.

Mr Browne said: "The problem of homelessness is not confined to those who can be seen sleeping on the streets.

"There is a much wider hidden problem of homelessness in Taunton Deane, and across the country, with people in temporary accommodation or sleeping on floors.

"It is in these situations that Shelter provides a particularly vital service in helping with their needs.

“I hope the newly expanded service at Shelter will be able to assist a wide range of people with serious housing needs.”