COUNCILS in East Lancashire are to receive nearly £300,000 as their share of a £3.4million North West pot, to support them in tackling homelessness more effectively.

Homelessness Minister Jeff Rooker said councils and voluntary organisations across the country will receive a share of £60m in 2004/05.

Councils will receive around £45m from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister to support the continued implementation of their homelessness strategies.

Voluntary organisations funded directly by ODPM will also benefit, receiving around £15m to support their work with homeless people.

Blackburn with Darwen Council will receive £50,000; Burnley will receive £54,000; Hyndburn, £37,00; Pendle, £50,000; Ribble Valley, £30,000; Rossendale will receive £40,000 and South Ribble will receive £34,000.

Speaking at the Association of London Government's homelessness conference, Jeff Rooker said: "This funding is good news for local authorities and the voluntary sector and demonstrates our commitment to tackling and preventing homelessness."