Agenda item

This report provides a summary of Homelessness activity in 2024/25.

Clare Dorning (Head of Homelessness Prevention) introduced the report which outlined that during 2024/25, 3,000 households approached the Council as homeless, of these, 547 households were placed in temporary accommodation (TA), with a total of 1,511 households in TA by 31 March 2025—a 4% increase on the previous year. The TA budget faced significant pressure, with a forecasted overspend of £7.7 million, later reduced to £6.4 million through mitigation measures. An action plan was implemented to reduce new entries into TA, lower costs, and increase move-on into settled housing. Efforts to prevent homelessness included early intervention and support into private rented accommodation. In 2024/25, 290 households were rehoused into permanent accommodation, accounting for 43.8% of lettings.

Councillor Adronie Alford expressed concern about siloed working and hoped that improvements were being made in this area. She referred to the 3,000 individuals who had approached the service, noting that only 500 had been identified as in priority need. Clare Dorning clarified that approximately 3,000 individuals had presented as being at risk of homelessness. However, temporary accommodation was only provided to those who were imminently at risk or who had specific needs. Of those who approached the service, around 500 were assessed as being in priority need.

Councillor Adronie Alford raised the issue that with such high numbers, individuals in both priority need and non-priority categories were competing for the same private rented accommodation. Clare Dorning confirmed this and explained that significant time was spent engaging with the private rental market. She noted that a Private Landlord Forum had been established to introduce the council’s approach and build relationships, ensuring landlords were aware of the council’s intention to engage constructively.

Richard Shwe added that the council was taking a proactive approach, aiming to prevent homelessness before it occurred. He highlighted the importance of educating residents on available options and working with private landlords to explore solutions. He also noted that the council was seeking additional government funding by demonstrating the effectiveness of its current initiatives.

Councillor Sally Taylor remarked that the demand for accommodation continued to exceed supply and that the end of this issue was not yet in sight. She referred to the fact that LBHF was working with landlords to defer evictions for a year and asked whether this was just delaying the inevitable or if it helped provide a long-term solution for families. Clare Dorning stated that many tenancies initially began with a two to three-year term, which led to a good proportion of success. She emphasised the importance of trust and confidence in these arrangements, noting that where relationships worked well, tenancies were often extended. She also explained that the council could offer rent in advance, rather than in arrears, to help mitigate the risk of homelessness.

Councillor Adronie Alford asked about the typical length of stay in temporary accommodation. Richard Shwe responded that this varied, with an average of 8 to 10 years in Hammersmith & Fulham. He acknowledged that where placements extended beyond five years, the term “temporary accommodation” was no longer appropriate. Councillor Adronie Alford suggested that the terminology should be revised to reflect the reality of longer-term placements. Richard Shwe confirmed that the council was exploring this issue with government, which was also reviewing the terminology. Councillor Sally Taylor noted that “temporary” could have different interpretations depending on the context.

Councillor Adronie Alford asked what would happen if a private rented sector tenancy, offered as a main housing duty, was lost. Clare Dorning explained that if the tenancy had been supported and was lost through no fault of the tenant within two years, the household could reapply for assistance.

Councillor Laura Janes enquired about the potential impact of the Rent Reform Act on the borough. Clare Dorning responded that the legislation was wide-reaching and primarily concerned with enforcement and regulation within the private rental market. She noted that it would introduce new considerations for households being served with notice, which could affect homelessness presentations. Councillor Laura Janes suggested that the reforms could help reduce the need for temporary accommodation. Richard Shwe agreed and added that the changes would enable more enforcement action against rogue landlords. He highlighted the role of the Private Rental Service in supporting tenants and encouraging them to engage with the council. Councillor Frances Umeh emphasised that the reforms would be essential for protecting renters.