A senior DCLG official has vacated their policy role to spearhead frontline service improvements for a homelessness charity.

Gary Messenger, former head of the Homelessness Programme at the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG), has joined homelessness umbrella organisation Homeless Link as head of London and the South East.

Having worked on the DCLG's statutory homelessness strategies for local authorities, Mr Messenger brings a wealth of sector experience spanning 10 years.

His key achievements include contributing to a reduction in households in temporary accommodation from 101,0000 (2004) to less than 50,000 (2010), and reducing the number of households designated homeless from 140,000 (2003) to under 20,000 (2010).

Jenny Edwards, chief executive of Homeless Link said:

‘Gary understands the issue of ending homelessness inside out. He has worked on the front-line and has helped shape national strategy for government. This experience should make a real difference as our members push to make services better and ultimately end homelessness once and for all.'