An MP was given a tour of a homelessness shelter which has been dealing with an increase in single people seeking help.

Harrow East MP Bob Blackman last week visited the shelter, run by the charity FirmFoundation, which is just one in Harrow providing accommodation for people during the winter.

Since 2010 the charity has opened four night shelters in the area and has received 143 referrals since April last year.

Mr Blackman said: “I cannot praise the work of the FirmFoundation enough in helping people who need it the most to shelter through the winter months.”

Charity manager Julian Saunders said: "It was a pleasure to welcome Mr Blackman to the shelter and to discuss the issues the charity faces in going ahead.

“FirmFoundation has grown to meet the needs of Harrow’s homeless but the numbers are increasing.

"It will require a co-ordinated effort if we are to support those individuals who are at their most vulnerable long-term.”