Strategy for homelessness: Westminster seeks public input
Westminster City Council is inviting residents to share their opinions on a new strategy aimed at tackling homelessness and rough sleeping in the borough. This initiative comes amid a growing crisis, with 1 in 50 households in London experiencing homelessness—a national issue that requires comprehensive solutions.
The council’s proposed strategy emphasizes prevention, recognizing the urgent need to address the underlying factors contributing to homelessness. With an overwhelming demand for assistance, over 5,500 households approached the council for support in the current year alone, and projections indicate this number could increase by 19% over the next two years.
Key components of the strategy focus on a collaborative approach to service delivery. The council plans to engage with public services, including GP surgeries, schools, and libraries, to identify and support vulnerable individuals before they face homelessness. This proactive outreach aims to create a network of support that addresses potential risks early on.
Additionally, the council aims to enhance data utilization to effectively target those at risk of being homeless, improve partnerships across London, and strengthen collaboration with the voluntary and community sectors. The strategy also prioritizes practical and rapid assistance for single homeless individuals and seeks to create more empathetic services for those experiencing multiple disadvantages.
Councillor Liza Begum, Cabinet Member for Housing Services, emphasized the council’s commitment to addressing the root causes of homelessness. “Homelessness and rough sleeping are significant challenges for many of our residents. This strategy outlines our intention to put people first through meaningful interventions, and we encourage our community to share their thoughts,” she said.
The council is also advocating for national support to address funding and the quality of temporary accommodations. By collaborating with local, regional, and national partners, Westminster City Council aims to realize its vision of ending rough sleeping in the borough.
In conjunction with the new strategy, the council is reviewing its social housing allocation process to ensure fairness and is transitioning some advice and support services under direct council control.
Residents have until 10th November, 2024, to contribute their views on the proposed strategy. Feedback can be submitted through the council’s website. This is an opportunity for the community to play a vital role in shaping a response to a pressing issue that affects many within Westminster.
