Homelessness charity Thames Reach, have applauded the Government's recent pledge to raise taxes payable on super-strength beer and lager, reports Inside Housing.

Those in social housing jobs know how challenging it is to help homeless people with alcohol problems find housing, particularly when they have been binging and make little to no sense. Additionally, it is hoped the rise in taxes will "help address the consumption of cheap, super strength lagers that are also associated with high and dangerous levels of alcohol consumption," says economic secretary Justine Greening.

Thames Reach is pleased with the decision to change taxes on beers with more than 7.5 percent alcohol content, claiming alcohol of this strength kills more homeless people in the UK than Class A drugs, like cocaine or heroin. The charity's chief executive, Jeremy Swain said the plan should "help save the lives of homeless and marginalised people addicted to these cheap and dangerous drinks."

The Government's proposed changes will come into effect next year, around Autumn time and the fine details of the tax rates will be fully confirmed in the Government's Spring Budget, communicated by chancellor George Osborne.

On NetDoctor.co.uk.the Treasury said of the plan: "There are a number of measures that can be considered to help address the harms associated with problem drinking and the Government recognises that in some areas, taxation can play a role."

The plan has been welcomed by most people, with the chief executive of Alcohol Concern Don Shenker, giving his support to the Government. However, he also believes: "A much more effective approach would be for cider duty to be brought in line with beer and for there to be low, medium and high-strength duty brands on all products, including wine."