Wandsworth Council reduces temporary accommodation usage
Temporary accommodation usage has fallen in Wandsworth over the past year, despite a nationwide increase in homeless families. This progress was highlighted at a recent Housing Committee meeting, where the council shared its plans to further reduce reliance on temporary housing in the coming year.
The council is focusing on homelessness prevention, supported by an expansion of staff. This includes 23 new positions added in 2022, as part of Wandsworth’s commitment to achieving the Mayor of London’s goal of ending homelessness and rough sleeping by 2030.
Temporary accommodation, while sometimes necessary due to high demand and limited housing supply, is costly and can negatively impact residents’ mental health. Wandsworth Council is actively working to provide more permanent solutions.
One resident, ‘Jess’ (not her real name), who lives with multiple sclerosis, found herself without stable housing after difficult family circumstances. With the help of a responsive council caseworker, she was able to find a new home and stay in her local community. Similarly, ‘Sarah’ (not her real name) faced sudden eviction and, with two young children who have Autism Spectrum Disorder, struggled to find a suitable home. The council assisted her in securing a property in the private market, ensuring her family’s safety.
These stories represent the council’s ongoing commitment to matching residents with homes that meet their specific needs. Reducing homelessness and temporary accommodation is a priority for Wandsworth as it works towards creating a fairer borough.
“Despite the worst homelessness crisis on record, Wandsworth has significantly slowed its use of temporary accommodation,” Aydin Dikerdem, Cabinet Member for Housing, said. “We’re already seeing positive impacts from expanding the homelessness prevention team.”
