Streetlink provides a central point of contact that members of the public who wish to get help for a rough sleeper can call.
Mark Prisk, Minister for Housing, said: "The general public want to help rough sleepers. Many people are desperate to help the people they see on the streets, but they simply do not know how they can. People are concerned that giving money is not the best solution, but do not know where else to turn.
"That's why, as a Government, we decided to provide the voluntary sector with funding to support a new approach. It offers a hand–up, rather than a handout."
Winchester & Chandler's Ford MP Steve Brine added: "Members of the public can now turn their concern into practical action, and take a direct step to help vulnerable adults change their lives for the better.
"Rough sleeping has no place in the 21st Century, and this is recognised by the excellent charities across my constituency, including Winchester Churches Nightshelter and the Trinity Centre.
"While numbers are low compared to many other countries, every rough sleeper is one too many, and I am really pleased to welcome Streetlink."
More information...
The Streetlink telephone number is 0300 500 0914 and you can also find out much more via the website www.streetlink.org.uk.