Looking forward to the King's Speech on the 17th of July, we were hopeful for planned legislative changes with the potential to transform the lives of those who are homeless in Temporary Accommodation, by increasing opportunities to live in safe and healthy temporary housing (homes of a properly regulated Decent Homes Standard across all forms of housing stock) and to reduce the duration of stays through increased access to social housing.
As an organisation, we are pleased that housing and homelessness have been placed in the hands of the Deputy Prime Minister, indicating the importance this government places on the need for lasting solutions. It is encouraging to see that the new government has hit the ground running on housing, with welcome announcements in the King's Speech such as finally abolishing Section 21 evictions through the Renter's Rights Bill. We also welcome Angela Rayner, the Deputy Prime Minister and new Minister for Housing, Communities and Local Government into her new role.
Any housing plans with an aim to end homelessness in the UK needs to put Temporary Accommodation at its centre. With a record 112,660 households and 145,800 children living in Temporary Accommodation in England, rough sleeping is just the tip of the iceberg.
It is a multifaceted problem that requires a systemic approach. We are particularly hopeful about the proposed ‘Ending Homelessness Unit’ promised during Labour’s campaign, and the potential it holds for addressing the crisis of Temporary Accommodation from across government departments.
Just as important, it is encouraging to hear Labour talk of renewed efforts to work collaboratively with regions and Local Authorities. The growing disconnect between a government, outlining law and budget restrictions, and Local Authorities tasked with the duty to solve homelessness locally, has sent a record 30% of those in Temporary Accommodation away from their home area, and pushed many Local Authorities to the brink of bankruptcy.
We welcome a new and ambitious government, putting Temporary Accommodation at the heart of solutions to solving homelessness, and collaboration at the heart of the approach.
You can see our letter to Angela Rayner below, outlining the stark reality that she will have to address, and our hopes in working alongside her to make stays in Temporary Accommodation short, safe and healthy. Hopefully we'll hear more detail this morning from the government.