UK Family Law Reform
Free information index
The most comprehensive evaluation of housing related support services estimated that £1.6 billion investment generated net savings of £3.4 billion to public spending. Preventing homelessness is far more cost effective than dealing with it once it has occurred. The minimum cost saving of preventing someone’s homelessness compared to accepting a homelessness duty is between £1,300 and £7,700. If somebody ends up street homeless the costs are even greater: it is estimated that one person sleeping rough costs between £8,605 and £35,000 a year in crime, emergency health and social care services alone.
National research demonstrates that homelessness & rough sleeping impacts significantly upon a person’s health & puts greater demands upon the health service, with 41% of homeless people attending Accident & Emergency Departments, 31% being admitted to hospital, 28% using an ambulance and 82% having visited a GP at least once within a 12 month period.
State of the nations strategies for tackling & preventing homelessness 2016
A vote of no confidence in regeneration.
https://www.facebook.com/simon.elmer.1/videos/10154087125234571/?pnref=story
Right to buy: One council house built for every eight sold under Government scheme
Social housing stock 'to fall 370,000 by 2020'
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-35881448
From: foi@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, June 01, 2016 9:34 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information request FOI/2016/365
Dear Mr David Mortimer
Yes, Portsmouth City Council did carry out mapping and gapping exercise and this helped us develop a prevention centred approach with the aim of supporting those most at risk of homelessness.
Yours sincerely
Rachel-Marie Wilson
Corporate Complaints and FOI Officer
https://www.portsmouth.gov.uk/
From: Sarah.Whitcombe@WESTOXON.GOV.UK
Sent: Friday, May 20, 2016 4:06 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FW: Freedom Of Information Register - RD16059 has been assigned
to you
Good Afternoon
The strategy was last fully reviewed in 2012, I unable to provide any further information as the Officers involved have left the Council.
Many Thanks
Mrs Sarah Whitcombe BA
Housing Team Lead
West Oxfordshire District Council
http://www.westoxon.gov.uk/
From: FreedomOfInformati@staffsmoorlands.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, May 18, 2016 4:29 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI-SM132/16
Dear Mr Mortimer
The 2012-2016 Homelessness Strategy, including review findings, are available at
http://www.staffsmoorlands.gov.uk/sm/council-services/policies-and-strategies/housing-strategies.
Yours sincerely
Jenny Atherton
Freedom of Information Officer
Staffordshire Moorlands District Council
http://www.staffsmoorlands.gov.uk/
From: zoe.paine@rushmoor.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, May 11, 2016 4:58 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: reman.rana@rushmoor.gov.uk ; sue.clements@rushmoor.gov.uk
Subject: FOI REQUEST 3981: HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION STRATEGY
Dear Mr. Mortimer
Further to your FOI request regarding the council’s strategy
for tackling and preventing homelessness I can confirm that we are currently
reviewing our strategy which was last published in 2011. Annual updates
which include evaluation of the housing team’s performance have
been published since 2011 and reported to the council’s directors
and councillors.
A copy of the strategy and all updates can be found on the council’s
website. Our provision mapping identified increased need for temporary
accommodation which has been addressed, and our approach to a number
of specific groups are is also addressed.
Zoe Paine BSc (Hons) MCIH
Housing Strategy & Enabling Manager
Environmental Health and Housing Service
Rushmoor Borough Council
http://www.rushmoor.gov.uk/
From: Brian.Daly@wycombe.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, May 04, 2016 1:35 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: smfile@wycombe.gov.uk ; Sarah.Barfield@wycombe.gov.uk
Subject: FOI request SM 15928
Dear Mr Mortimer
Our homelessness strategy was updated in 2013 and is for the period 2014 to 2019. The strategy is available on our website and can be perused at your leisure.
We have considered ‘mapping and gapping’ and have not found any discernible links as yet to any concerns as yet.
Yours sincerely
Brian Daly
Housing Service Manager
Wycombe District Council
https://www.wycombe.gov.uk/
From: YourRight.ToKnow@essex.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, May 04, 2016 12:30 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI Response to ECC-066600-16
Dear Sir/Madam,
I can confirm that Essex County Council does not hold this information.
Re: Please will you kindly tell me when your strategy for tackling & preventing homelessness was last reviewed & if a mapping & gapping exercise was carried out at that time & if identified any groups who were excluded in your community?
Yours sincerely,
Your Right To Know
Transparency Team
Essex County Council
http://www.essex.gov.uk/
From: foi@eden.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, May 04, 2016 11:23 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Tackling and Preventing Homelessness: FOI Ref No 03726
Dear David
Further to your recent FOI request about EDCs strategy for tackling and preventing homelessness which was logged under FOI Ref No 03726 our Officers advise me that EDC set up a review group, undertook multi-agency monitoring, set up the steering group to identify gaps in services that then influenced our Homelessness Strategy Action Plan. Officers did some consultation with people who had experienced homelessness as well which also informed our Action Plan and Strategy. Officers monitored out statistics in terms of who presented as homeless, looking at a number of different factors such as armed forces personnel, ethnicity, age, gender, disability (physical/mental).
The Action plan was reviewed during 2014/15 no group were identified as being excluded in our community.
Regards
Rosalyn Richardson
Freedom of Information
Eden District Council
http://www.eden.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Derek.Oconnor@conwy.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, May 04, 2016 10:51 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RESPONSE 8940-15: Request for information under the freedom
of information act.
Dear Sir/Madam
Apologies for the delay - Please find attached information in response to your Freedom of Information request.
http://www.conwy.gov.uk/upload/public/attachments/572/Local_Housing_Strategy_20132018a.pdf
Information Governance Unit
CONWY County Borough Council
http://www.conwy.gov.uk/
From: Pardip.Singh@eastleigh.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2016 5:41 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: Request for Information
Dear Mr Mortimer
Our housing strategy:
http://meetings.eastleigh.gov.uk/ieIssueDetails.aspx?IId=32206&Opt=3
Yours sincerely
Pardip Singh
Eastleigh Borough Council
https://www.eastleigh.gov.uk/
From: trevor.hart@sutton.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2016 4:44 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: freedom.information@sutton.gov.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Act request re Homelessness strategy
- Ref F8951
Dear Mr Mortimer
I can advise, firstly, that the Council does not have a separately published homelessness strategy; rather homelessness and our strategic approach to tackling it is set within the Authority's housing strategy, the latest draft of which can be found at:
https://drive.google.com/a/sutton.gov.uk/file/d/0B19JvLvJMV1RZGVJZWpicl8tNWc/view
I can further advise that no formal "mapping & gapping exercise" as such was carried out when the housing strategy was last reviewed. In terms of any groups in our community who might potentially be excluded, an Integrated Impact Assessment was carried out on the strategy and this can be found at:
https://drive.google.com/a/sutton.gov.uk/file/d/0B19JvLvJMV1RXzkyV2ZKajNvSVE/view
Yours sincerely
Trevor Hart
London Borough of Sutton
https://www.sutton.gov.uk
From: chuka.umunna.mp@parliament.uk
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2016 4:24 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: People aged between 18 & 35 are
not owed a housing duty under homelessness legislation (Case Ref: ZA15381)
Dear David Mortimer,
Thank you for writing to me about the importance of housing support for our young people.
I share your concerns about the Conservative government’s proposed cuts to housing benefits for young people. Such cuts would be extremely damaging and would remove the essential support for those who are especially at risk. My fellow Labour colleagues have called upon the Government to rethink their approach to welfare reform and housing benefits.
Please be assured I will continue to oppose the Conservative government’s attempts to remove the essential services for those seeking support and safety. I have previously written to the Prime Minister and the Work & Pensions Secretary in regards to this issue.
Thanks again for getting in touch.
Yours sincerely,
Chuka Umunna
Labour MP for Streatham
From: informationmanager@wirral.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2016 4:08 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: FOI 1005016 - David Mortimer - Request for information
under the freedom of information act.Strategy for tackling & preventing
homelessness last review -
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Wirral Council Supported Housing & Homelessness section can advise that, in 2012, the Council commissioned external consultants to conduct a Homeless 'review'. The Review considered both quantitative and qualitative data relating to homelessness in Wirral and sought the views of homeless people and those of professionals that work in the sector.
Your request seeks information as to whether the review identified ‘any groups who were excluded in your community’. Whilst the Homeless Review made a number of recommendations to meet the housing/support needs of different homeless profiles, a recurring theme in the Review was that there was a lack of provision for people (young people and adults) who have a number of needs which are more complex to meet, including chaotic behaviour and undiagnosed or unaddressed mental health problems. This gap has since been addressed through the commissioning of specialist housing support services.
The findings of this Review provided the basis for the development of Wirral Council's Homeless Strategy 2013-2018. The strategy acknowledges that homelessness is a complex problem with multiple causes requiring both flexible solutions and the delivery of innovative services in order to reach the increasing number of people affected by the economic climate. The strategy therefore identified four key priorities to respond to these issues:
• Preventing Homelessness wherever possible, through early intervention and effective collaborative work.
• Strengthening Partnership Working to ensure that the housing and support needs of those with more complex needs are met.
• Evaluating and Re-aligning homelessness and prevention services to ensure continuing strategic relevance and value-for money within an environment of increasing demand and reducing resources.
• Increasing access to the private-rented sector to ensure the best possible use of the range of housing stock in Wirral.
The Homeless Strategy was accompanied by a detailed plan that identified key actions and milestones. This action plan is reviewed for relevance on a quarterly basis by both the Council and the members of Wirral Homeless Forum which includes representatives from local agencies that work with vulnerable, homeless people.
We trust you find this information of assistance.
Yours sincerely,
Tracy O'Hare
Wirral Council
https://www.wirral.gov.uk/
From: Claire.Gray@hullcc.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2016 2:14 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Act 2000 – Information Request
- 000499/16
Dear Mr Mortimer
The strategy sets out what the evidence showed and the associated actions. It was published in 2012 and the review was undertaken in 2012. We are not familiar with the term ‘mapping & gapping’. If this is a specific tool then we did not use it. Analysis was undertaken of the provision verses the demand for provision and any age gaps were identified. The strategy is currently under review and will be published in autumn 2016. A similar exercise is being undertaken during this year.
http://www.hullcc.gov.uk/portal/page?_pageid=221,696955&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL
Yours sincerely
Claire Gray
Hull City Council
http://www.hullcc.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Committee.clerk@maldon.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2016 1:35 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act (F15/0530 DUE 6 APRIL 2016)
Dear Mr Mortimer,
A formal review was carried out in September 2013 in accordance with the Code of Guidance and was then reviewed under the government's Gold Standard and was found to be fully compliant in its scope and strategic content. The Council is not aware of any particular groups that were excluded and set priorities within its action plan based upon current resources and options available for various groups locally and the impact of failing to meet these needs.
Regards.
Helen Overton
Maldon District Council
http://www.maldon.gov.uk
From: Ric.Brackenbury@stroke.org.uk
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2016 1:17 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Subject: RE: People aged between 18 & 35 are
not owed a housing duty under homelessness legislation
Hello David,
I don’t think it’s quite as black and white as that – people who are particularly vulnerable (e.g. disabilities, mental health issues) can be regarded as being in priority need whatever their age, and certainly if children are involved.
We simply don’t have the houses to match the need, and with the Government expanding the right to buy scheme, the council will lose further homes (including housing association properties that can be nominated to.)
The only real way out is for us to build more houses to drop prices and increase supply – Milton Keynes has more opportunity to do this than many other areas.
Best wishes
Ric Brackenbury
Stroke Association
https://www.stroke.org.uk/
From: Denise.White@eastbourne.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2016 12:45 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Information Request FOI-16-518
Dear Mr Mortimer
We are currently in the process of reviewing our strategy for tackling and preventing homelessness. This is involving a thorough mapping and gapping exercise to identify any excluded groups. This review will be complete June 2016.
Yours sincerely
Denise White
Eastbourne Borough Council
https://www.eastbournehomes.org.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: katherine.mcguirk@parliament.uk
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2016 12:26 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: People aged between 18 & 35 are
not owed a housing duty under homelessness legislation
Dear Mr Mortimer
I totally agree that this Governments attitude to housing is Victorian if not worse. Younger people are being priced out of the market in renting and in buying and the right to buy has left our housing stock depleted
Labour oppose the Housing and Planning Bill
Regards
Bill Esterson
From: FOI@wolverhampton.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2016 11:32 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Request
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Our document was reviewed in 2015 and is reviewed annually. Gaps highlighted in the review included:
Lack of single female homeless provision
A need for more suitable and affordable long term accommodation
Better access to support for households with complex needs
In relation to the excluded groups the BME population of the City is 35.5% however the numbers of BME homelessness presentations is around 22%
Rita Rich
City of Wolverhampton Council
http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/
From: Accessinfo@havering.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2016 11:21 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: AIR11301S - Response to the request for information
Dear Mr. David Mortimers,
The Homelessness Sub Strategy is contained within the Housing Strategy 2014-17. It was last reviewed in October 2015, no mapping and gapping exercise has been conducted. However the strategy is subject to on-going review as the new strategy is required by April 2017.
Yours sincerely
Mrs Kazazic
London Borough of Havering
http://www.havering.gov.uk
From: foi@fenland.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2016 10:39 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Act 2000 - Information Request No: 3667
Dear David
Our Strategy reviewed in 2014 & no excluded groups identified.
Yours sincerely
Corporate Support Officers
Fenland District Council
http://www.fenland.gov.uk/
From: V.Knapp@ashfield-dc.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2016 10:33 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Reply 1604
Good morning
The last Homeless Strategy was 2012 – 2015, a new Housing Strategy incorporating Homeless priorities for the district (and addressing the needs of vulnerable groups) will go out for consultation at the end of June following Cabinet approval of the draft document.
Kind regards
Vicky Knapp
Ashfield District Council
http://www.ashfield-dc.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: J.Hesbrook@spelthorne.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2016 10:29 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: FOI Ref 349 - Request for information under the freedom
of information act.
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Our Homelessness Strategy, Housing Strategy and Private Sector Housing Strategy were all reviewed and formally adopted in February 2015 and can be viewed on the Council's website.
https://www.spelthorne.gov.uk/article/3207/Housing-Strategy
Kind regards
John Hesbrook
Spelthorne Borough Council
https://www.spelthorne.gov.uk/
From: Ian.Jolley@Rochdale.Gov.UK
Sent: Thursday, April 07, 2016 9:35 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Rosie.McGeown@Rochdale.Gov.UK
Subject: FOI 11411 & FOI 11583
Mr Mortimer
I can confirm that I am aware of the general costs associated with preventing homelessness and having effective prevention interventions as opposed to the often much greater expense to the public purse in assisting those that become homeless. Further to this I am aware that it is generally more expensive to accommodate people in HMP and Hospital environments than housing.
Regards
Ian Jolley
Rochdale Borough Council
https://www.rochdale.gov.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: JFaircliffe@rutland.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2016 6:18 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: State of the nations strategies for tackling & preventing
homelessness 2016
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Council's Homelessness Strategy is at
http://www.rutland.gov.uk/housing/affordable_housing/policies__strategies.aspx
Best regards
James Faircliffe
Rutland County Council
http://www.rutland.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Hayley.Adkins@Cherwell-DC.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2016 5:04 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Request for information under the freedom of information act
Dear Mr Mortimer
In Cherwell we do not have a separate Homeless Strategy. Instead we have incorporated the Prevention of Homelessness within our overarching Housing Strategy 2012 -2017 where it is one of the councils six key priorities. A copy of the current Housing Strategy can be found on the councils website -
http://www.cherwell.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=1834
To support the delivery of this priority we also produce a Homeless Action Plan which reviews local trends based upon information collected by the council and external partner agencies. We use this to cross reference with data collected from previous years to assess current trends and performance and to identify where there are likely to be future challenges that need to focus upon.
In recent years we have reviewed the action plan annually to ensure that the austerity measures being introduced nationally and cuts to local services are being mitigated by supporting services working within the district to be robust and ready for the changes we have seen take place.
The most recent review took place in November 2015 which resulted in
the latest Homeless Prevention Action Plan being produced and launched
in March 2016 for the coming financial year (2016/2017).
We did not identify any particular groups that
were excluded from receiving support but we have seen an increase in
demand for support for single homelessness services which we
will be looking to prioritise in the coming year.
Yours sincerely
Marianne North
Cherwell Council
http://www.cherwell.gov.uk/
From: heedsfoi@west-dunbarton.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2016 4:54 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FW: FOI REQUEST ALL INFORMATION DISCLOSED FOI 16/1633512 Homelessness
Strategy Review
Dear David Mortimer,
West Dunbartonshire Council homelessness strategy was last reviewed
and updated in 2013, as part of the strategy development a mapping exercise
and an Equalities Impact Assessment was carried out. No
evidence to suggest any community exclusions, although homelessness
is assessed as higher within under 25s age grouping.
Yours sincerely
Susan Stopford
West Dunbartonshire Council
https://www.west-dunbarton.gov.uk/
From: FOI@sheffield.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2016 4:44 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Response FOI 1662
Dear Mr Mortimer
I can confirm that there is currently a review
of the homeless strategy being carried out. The previous strategy,
which you can find on our Council website
finished at the end of 2013. During 2015 we reviewed the strategy,
carried out a variety of data analysis on our homelessness statistics,
including detailed equalities information, carried out a gap analysis
and consulted with a variety of partners within the council, for example,
the Equalities Board. We also carried out consultation with partners
we work with outside the Council, some of whom also sit on the Equalities
Board, and focus groups with other organisations.
We are currently analysing all the information, and are working on a
new five year strategy which we plan to take the cabinet during the
summer this year. When this happens it will be included in the cabinet
minutes/papers on the SCC website and you will be able to find it by
searching on the following link:
http://sheffielddemocracy.moderngov.co.uk/ieDocHome.aspx?bcr=1
Yours sincerely,
Resources Business Support
Sheffield Council
https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/
From: Amanda.Dobson@leeds.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2016 4:39 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Private and Confidential Freedom of Information request ref
16077
Dear Mr Mortimer,
The current homelessness strategy (which all Local Authorities are required by law to have) is online at:
Kind Regards
Mandy Dobson
Leeds City Council
http://www.leeds.gov.uk/
From: Katie.Butler@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2016 4:08 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: envfoi@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk
Subject: FOI - 1202223
Dear Mr Mortimer,
The strategy for tackling and preventing homelessness locally forms part of the Local Housing Strategy. Further detail on the LHS itself can be found at
http://www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk/local-housing-strategy
The current strategy runs from 2012-2017, and we are in the process of developing a fresh 5 year strategy for 2017-2022. As part of the process of mapping needs, and identifying priority issues for the strategy, we carry out regional and local analysis of housing needs and homelessness on a rolling basis.
Many Thanks,
Katie Butler
East Renfrewshire Council
http://www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk
From: y.jenkins@neath-porttalbot.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2016 4:01 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Final Response to FOI 44 David Mortimer Homelessness Strategy
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Neath Port Talbot ‘Local Housing Strategy’ provides an overview of the Council’s response to preventing and responding to Homelessness in Section 7 of the document. Please find to follow a link to a downloadable version of the Strategy here:
http://www.npt.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=1189
For your information, the Housing (Wales) Act 2014 places a duty upon Local Authorities to carry out a homelessness review and formulate a Homelessness Strategy in 2018 and then to be undertaken every 4 years thereafter.
Kind regards
Yvonne Jenkins
Neath Port Talbot Council
http://www.npt.gov.uk/
From: Greg.Spawton@NFDC.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2016 1:42 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 3187 - Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear Mr Mortimers
The strategy was last reviewed approximately ten years ago (the Council was classed as CPA excellent meaning the obligation to publish further strategies was suspended.) A full mapping and gapping exercise was carried out.
If there is officer capacity, the strategy will be looked at again in the next two years.
Yours sincerely
Gregory Spawton
New Forest District Council
http://www.newforest.gov.uk
From: gwawrowen@gwynedd.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2016 11:19 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information (ref T15852)
Dear David Mortimer,
Please find a link to our Homelessness Strategy which provides information on current Service provision and gaps identified
https://www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/en/Council/Strategies-and-policies/Housing/Homelessness-Strategy.aspx
Yours sincerely,
Gwawr Owen
Gwynedd Council
https://www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/
From: K.Winfield@ashfield-dc.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2016 11:09 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Our current homeless strategy runs from 2013 until 2018. It is under constant review through the Joint Homeless Interagency Homeless Forum which meets bi-monthly. All agencies voluntary & statutory are invited to the forum, to participate in working groups to review provision in the area as well as the strategies action points. We have not identified any groups in our community who have been excluded.
Regards
Kathryn Winfield
Ashfield District Council
https://www.ashfield-dc.gov.uk
From: nigellong59@gmail.com
Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2016 11:00 AM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Cc: cllroneill@gmail.com;
Jane.Reed@Milton-keynes.gov.uk
Subject: Re: People aged between 18 & 35 are
not owed a housing duty under homelessness legislation
David,
Thank you for this.
When the original Homeless Persons Act was introduced in 1977 as a private members bill it did not include this group per sa. Nor did the 1985 Act that consolidated the law on homelessness or the 1996 Act.
However any young person who is vulnerable is covered by the law. To be vulnerable the ground rule used to be less able to cope than someone of a similar age.
A lot of councils, and I used to be a homeless Persons Officer at Islington tried really hard to take young people back home unless threatened with violence etc.
So there has always been an issue around young people and Homelessness Law.
I am not the expert I once was, but recent case law has changed the position a little. The Southwark judgement places a responsibility on Councils around duty of care esp on leaving care.
There is also social care law that creates responsibility for young people up to 25. But again it is no longer my field of detailed knowledge.
I hope this helps.
Nigel
From: foi@bridgend.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2016 10:02 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI X01-4941
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Bridgend County Borough Council does not have a stand-alone homelessness strategy, it is incorporated into the Local Housing Strategy, the 2009-14 version of which can be found on the link below. The homelessness element can be found on page 27.
http://www1.bridgend.gov.uk/media/120405/Local_Housing_Strategy_2009__2014__English_Version_.pdf
An updated version of the Local Housing Strategy for 2016-18 is currently being finalised.
The Housing (Wales) Act 2014, Part 2, Chapter 1 (50) now requires that all Local Authorities in Wales carry out a homelessness review and formulate a homelessness strategy. Local Authorities must adopt a homelessness strategy in 2018 and a new homelessness strategy in every fourth year after 2018. A homelessness strategy will therefore not be available until 2018.
Yours sincerely
Freedom of Information Office
Bridgend County Borough Council
http://www1.bridgend.gov.uk/
From: Internet-CustomerRelations@cheltenham.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, April 06, 2016 9:05 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: Request for information under the freedom of information
act. - FOI 4680
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Our homelessness strategy was last reviewed in 2012, with gaps and emerging trends being identified for specific members of the community, e.g. those with complex needs.
Yours sincerely
Emily Davies
Cheltenham Borough Council
http://www.cheltenham.gov.uk/
From: jferrans01@gmail.com
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 8:15 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Cc: mail@chrisw9.plus.com
Subject: RE: People aged between 18 & 35 are
not owed a housing duty under homelessness legislation
Hi David,
I’m afraid I wasn’t involved in politics when that was done – it was a long time ago.
So I’ll refer you to our Housing spokesperson.
I absolutely agree it’s an infamous rule, and leaves a lot of people in desperate conditions.
Jenni Ferrans
From: icaseworkinformationemail@lbhf.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 4:21 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Information request (ref: 895560)
Dear Mr. Mortimer,
The Council is in the process of reviewing its
Homelessness Prevention and this will be presented for approval
to the Council’s cabinet on 11th April 2016
Yours sincerely
Toyin Sijuwade
Hammersmith & Fulham Council
https://www.lbhf.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: foi@broxbourne.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 4:17 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Request for information under the freedom of information act,
ref 3668 - response
Dear Mr Mortimer
Our strategy for tackling & preventing homelessness was last reviewed 2014 & a mapping & gapping exercise was carried out. No groups were excluded.
Yours sincerely
Jessica Palmer
Broxbourne Borough Council
https://www.broxbourne.gov.uk
From: FOI@n-kesteven.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 3:52 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI Request 15/550 - Homeless Strategy
Dear Mr Mortimer,
We started our homelessness strategy review in July 2015, as part of that review we consulted and involved stakeholders in an exercise of mapping current provision and identifying any gaps in service and clients groups, in March 2016 we held a further stakeholder event to initiate action planning for the new strategy taking into account the review information, emerging issues and anticipated government policy.
No groups were identified as excluded, some were highlighted as having very limited housing options and/or assistance, these included single persons aged under 35, those considered as intentionally homeless and those with complex mental health issues.
Yours sincerely
Alex Sales
North Kesteven District Council
https://www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/
From: freedomofinfo@bolton.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 3:51 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RFI 7388
Dear Mr Mortimer
Bolton’s homelessness strategy was last reviewed in 2013. We did not undertake a formal “mapping & gapping” exercise at that time.
Yours sincerely
Debbie Hinsley
Bolton Council
http://www.bolton.gov.uk/
From: FOIA@Milton-keynes.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 2:37 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 2000 - INFORMATION REQUEST Ref:
275375
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Prevention opportunities are constantly being sought by Housing Options Staff. Our service and procedures were last reviewed by the DCLG at our invitation during January 2012.
The importance of prevention is a priority for the council and in order to improve outcomes we have taken on board recommendations made by the DCLG.
The council have now procured Housing Quality Network to complete a review of the councils Homelessness Strategy as required by the Homelessness Act 2002. Within this strategy key issues will be addressed including prevention and it is not anticipated that any groups of the community will be excluded from prevention.
Kind Regards
Hetna Nayee
Milton Keynes Council
http://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk
From: Freedomofinformation@hartlepool.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 1:53 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act. 6493
Dear David
The review of the Homelessness Strategy was undertaken during 2014 and its findings were used to develop Hartlepool’s Housing Strategy, Priority 5 which is ‘Preventing Homelessness and Providing Options’
No groups excluded.
Kind Regards
Hayley Martin
Hartlepool Borough Council
https://www.hartlepool.gov.uk/
From: Gemma.Harrison@fife.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 12:08 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 - Request for information
(FCIR: 13056)
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Prevention of Homelessness was reviewed in 2015 as part of our Local Housing Strategy. The Strategy now runs from 2015 to 2020.
We identified issues and priorities within Prevention of Homelessness rather than gaps. The following issues are taken from Priority 1 of the Local Housing Strategy - Prevention of Homelessness.
Issues
· Although it is a reducing trend, 2,252 people presented as homeless in year
· Homelessness predominantly impacts on single people (58%)
· Single parents are the second largest group (26%)
· There is an over-representation of males in homelessness (54%)
· The majority of homeless applicants are aged 26-59 years (61%)
· Homeless people previously shared accommodation with relatives / friends / partners (39%)
· Around 11% of homeless people will have been housed previously by a social landlord
· Around 7% of homeless people will have been previously homeless in the last 12 months
· Around 16% of homeless people will lose contact with the Council after assessment
· Homelessness ‘hotspots’ have been identified in Dunfermline and Kirkcaldy
· Around 45% of cases closed resulted in a Scottish Secure Tenancy and only 3% of cases closed resulted in the applicants being provided with private rented housing
· 109 homeless applicants were looked after as a child by the local authority and 72 were formerly a member of the armed services
Regards,
Gemma Harrison
Fife Council
http://www.fifedirect.org.uk
From: FoiUnit@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 11:37 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RFI 16 3882
Dear David Mortimer
I have provided a link to the Housing (Wales) Act 2104 the associated Code of Guidance and our 10 year Homelessness Prevention Plan which may be of interest.
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/anaw/2014/7/pdfs/anaw_20140007_en.pdf
http://gov.wales/docs/desh/publications/090724homelessnessplanen.pdf
Kind regards
Freedom of Information Unit
Vale of Glamorgan Council
http://www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk
From: wellbeingcareandlearningfoi@newcastle.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 11:29 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 10044
Dear David,
Our 2014-19 Homelessness Strategy is available online:
https://www.newcastle.gov.uk/housing/housing-advice-and-homelessness/information-for-professionals
As well as the strategy the information details the on-going review process that facilitates identifying gaps and responses.
Yours sincerely
Louise Appleby
Newcastle City Council
https://www.newcastle.gov.uk/
From: MikeTrigg@monmouthshire.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 11:14 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: Request for information under the freedom of information
act. 151022
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Please see our Cabinet proposal (agreed Autumn 2014) for the development of our joint Housing Solutions Service, which effectively reviewed our approach to increasing homeless prevention and tackling homelessness. The service went live in March 2015.
In terms of gaps, it is extremely difficult for young single people to acquire accommodation in Monmouthshire, particularly those on low incomes and reliance on benefit. Reasons include a lack of one bedroomed social housing and private rented accommodation, the high market rents in Monmouthshire and housing benefit regulations. In this context, the availability of lodgings type accommodation is considered a gap in accommodation availability in Monmouthshire.
Regards,
Mike Trigg,
Monmouthshire Council
http://www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/
From: CQuinn@thurrock.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 11:12 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 5627
Dear Mr Mortimer,
The latest review of homelessness in the borough was undertaken in 2015. The review included a Community & Equality Impact assessment (CEIA) which did not identify any specific excluded groups in the community. All the documentation provided for the cabinet report can be found on the Council’s website at
http://democracy.thurrock.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=129&MId=2566&Ver=4
A new strategy was devised which is also available on the website
https://www.thurrock.gov.uk/strategies/homelessness-strategy
Subsequently an action plan is now being implemented through the Council’s multi agency homelessness forum. The forum is responsible for carrying out the actions identified within the strategy including work identified within the CEIA.
Kind regards,
Claire Quinn BSc Hons
Thurrock Council
https://www.thurrock.gov.uk/
From: sylvia.roberts@ashford.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 10:57 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Homelessness
Dear David Mortimer,
The Homelessness Act 2002 places a requirement on local housing authorities to formulate and publish a homelessness strategy based on a review of homelessness in their district. A homelessness strategy should be published within five years of the previous strategy. The previous Ashford Homelessness Strategy was adopted by the Council and published in July 2013. http://www.ashford.gov.uk/download.cfm?doc=docm93jijm4n3328.doc&ver=5329
The Ashford Homelessness Strategy and Action Plan 2015.
This strategy and action plan aims to ensure that we are delivering improved or improving services to anyone in the Ashford area that is homeless or threatened with homelessness.
The action plan shows how we intend to meet the ten local challenges posed in Making Every Contact Count and our aspiration to meet the Gold Standard criteria. The Gold Standard Challenge is a local authority, sector led peer review scheme designed to help local authorities deliver more efficient and cost effective homelessness prevention services and to identifying where working collaboratively will achieve enhanced outcomes and offer value for money.
Based on the outcomes of the Homelessness Review and stakeholder consultation actions have been developed which are most pertinent to deliver locally to have the highest positive impact on the prevention and relief of homelessness in Ashford.
Kind regards
Mrs Sylvia Roberts
Ashford Borough Council
http://www.ashford.gov.uk/
From: FOI@CAERPHILLY.GOV.UK
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 10:45 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 16/0311 - FW: Request for information under the freedom
of information act.
Dear David Mortimer
The authority has not had a stand alone homelessness strategy for some
years because of the changes planned by Welsh Government for homelessness
legislation that have been several years in development. Any substantial
change in legislation then gives rise the development of a new Code
of Guidance, that homelessness departments are required to adhere to
and use as a basis of a homelessness strategy. The Code of Guidance
for 2012 was published and shortly afterwards the new legislation was
prepared, which gave rise to the most recent Code of Guidance (2015).
The new guidance advises that authorities shall develop and publish
a new homelessness strategy by 2018 which will be reviewed every 4 years
thereafter.
Our homelessness plans have reflected the service
users relevant for each period of time in the life of the various codes
of guidance, with the most recent being more focus
on rough sleepers and prison leavers, whose priority need status has
been removed.
Yours sincerely
GARETH GRIFFITHS
Caerphilly county borough council
http://www.caerphilly.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: foi@charnwood.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 10:32 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Your information request (Our reference FOI 7046) received
by us on 15 March 2016
Dear Mr Mortimer
The last Homelessness Strategy was developed in the Summer of 2013. As part of the process of setting the annual action plan we review the actions completed in the preceding year to agree the actions for the following year and as part of this process we identify any gaps in service provision
Yours sincerely,
Megan Bilton
Charnwood Borough Council
http://www.charnwood.gov.uk/
From: Freedom.Info@kirklees.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 10:01 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: 12509 - Mortimer - Strategy against homelessness
Dear Mr Mortimer
Kirklees Council Preventing Homelessness Strategy and can be accessed by using the link below. There is reference to the Action Plan updated March 2015 and again in September 2015 which is currently being uploaded onto our website by the Web Development Team.
http://www.kirklees.gov.uk/community/housing/pdf/homelessnessPreventionStrategy.pdf
Yours sincerely
Jenny Cartwright
Kirklees Council
http://www.kirklees.gov.uk/
From: FREEDOM.INFORMATION@NWLeicestershire.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 9:29 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: NWL2149/54 - Freedom of Information Response - Information
Requested
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Prevention of Homelessness Strategy for North West Leicestershire District Council was renewed in 2013 and runs through to 2018.
An equality analysis was carried out and there were no excluded groups identified,
Yours sincerely,
Sue Wright
North West Leicestershire District Council
http://www.nwleics.gov.uk
From: freedom@nsdc.info
Sent: Tuesday, April 05, 2016 6:59 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Request for information - RFI-2016-0295 CRM:0120813
Dear Mr Mortimer
In November 2012 the Housing Options, Energy and Home Support Business Unit carried out a review of homelessness in the district, the findings shaped the development of the councils 5 year Homelessness Strategy 2013-2018. An Equality Impact Assessment was completed on 31.07.13, exclusions from our community were not identified, however, specific actions required to address milestones, monitoring and review of the following groups were acknowledged:
Age - Housing and Children’s
Services to keep the young people’s protocol
under review to ensure young people are not adversely
impacted by the lack of joint working.
BME - Continued monitoring of BME communities and their needs and to
adapt existing material into any chosen language as necessary.
Sexual Orientation - Monitor the necessity for Housing Options officers
to take up awareness training sessions to better assess the needs of
this group
Gender reassignment - Councils Housing Options and frontline advice
staff receive training on the needs of people who are transgender or
undergoing gender reassignment and information about services is promoted
to those groups via GP services or specialist services.
Teenage Pregnancy - Monitoring
of this group is recommended and appropriate action taken to try and
combat any increased numbers in teenage pregnancies.
Disability - Recommend the development of existing leaflets into different
formats as necessary, i.e. larger print for applicants who are partially
blind.
Religion & beliefs – To encourage a range of faith clubs to
work in partnership through the Interagency Homelessness Forum.
Yours sincerely
David Clarke
Newark and Sherwood District Council
http://www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: FOI@scilly.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 5:05 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FW: FOI 4456
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Council of the Isles of Scilly has a range of policies to address local housing needs and homelessness on the isles of Scilly, but due to the very small numbers we have not got a Strategy specifically for tackling and preventing homelessness.
We have just completed a major housing survey which is currently in draft form which 30% of our residents responded to which looked at our Strategic Housing Market Needs Assessment and our Objective Assessment of Need.
As we only have a very small community of just over 2,200 we have not identified any groups excluded in our community.
FOI Team
Council of the Isles of Scilly
http://www.scilly.gov.uk/
From: information@croydon.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 4:47 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Request: F/CRT/10005586 EMAILID042501204
Dear Mr Mortimer
Due to a current departmental review of this strategy, our code of practice is currently out of date and is being redrafted. It will be published in Spring 2016, the current strategy can be found on Croydon’s website
http://www.croydon.gov.uk/democracy/dande/policies/housing/strategies/hreview
Yours sincerely
Ahtisham Riaz
Croydon Council
http://www.croydon.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: CFInfoGov@manchester.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 4:22 PM
To: David@Mortimers-Removals.Co.Uk
Subject: A83GGN (Homelessness strategy)
Dear David
Manchester City Council last reviewed its Homelessness Strategy in 2013, and the current Homelessness Strategy covers the period 2013-2018. The review included a mapping and gapping exercise, and considered a range of information, including both primary customer research and an in-depth desk-top analysis of data from the Council and other agencies to identify key issues and trends. This analysis has been supplemented by wider data on the population in Manchester, economic factors, health inequalities, and the housing market. The review highlighted a number of communities that are disproportionally represented within homelessness services – these include single people, domestic abuse victims, and some BME communities. The review did not identify any groups who were excluded. It did indentify the need to ensure appropriate services are commissioned for LGBT communities.
The Homelessness Strategy will be reviewed this year to ensure that the priorities in the strategy remain current and relevant, and any emerging needs or gaps are identified.
The Homelessness Review and the Homelessness Strategy 2013 -2018 are published on the Council’s website
http://www.manchester.gov.uk/info/200117/homeless_people/7160/homelessness_strategy_2013-18
Ruth Enright
Manchester City Council
http://www.manchester.gov.uk
From: Accesstoinfo@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 4:05 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI1284 2015-16JM
Dear Mr Mortimer
Our current Homelessness Strategy was approved by the Council’s Executive on 31st March 2015, and therefore is not due for review yet. In developing the strategy, a comprehensive review of homelessness across Central Bedfordshire was undertaken over a period of ten months and involved active engagement with service providers and partner agencies.
The following strategic priorities have been adopted and are based upon the Homelessness Review findings:
Priority 1: Improve the provision of a range of housing options and services to effectively prevent and reduce homelessness
Priority 2: Increase Housing Supply to meet the accommodation and support needs of homeless people
Priority 3: Reduce the use of temporary accommodation and bed andbreakfast
Priority 4: Minimise the impact of welfare reform, while assisting homeless people to access opportunities for employment, education and training, and support them to raise and meet their aspirations.
Priority 5: Develop an integrated partnership approach to tackling homelessness
http://www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/Images/homeless-strategy-2015-2020_tcm3-2710.pdf
http://www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/Images/homeless-strategy-action_tcm3-2711.pdf
Kind regards
Joanne Mulliner
Central Bedfordshire Council
http://www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/
From: foi@ryedale.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 2:56 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI3730-FOI Response
Ryedale's latest Homelessness Strategy, Review and Action Plan was published in September 2015. The review, which informed the new strategy, was undertaken in 2014/15. A Gap Analysis identified:
Consistency
needed with all RPs for prevention measures re. rent arrears.
All clients to be offered assistance re. employment & education.
Increase consultation with young people re. available services.
Lack of specific housing options services for older people.
North Yorkshire Home Choice (CBL) to be more widely advertised.
Need to improve relationships with local employers.
No Second Night Out provisions to be formalised.
SLAs needed with B&B providers.
Additional shared housing is needed for young people.
There are no excluded groups that have been identified, but it is recognised that some groups may need additional service provision due to the large size and rural nature of the District. Older people, in particular, need a more flexible service provision as they are often unable to access internet-based services and live remote from access points or assistance.
Freedom of Information
Ryedale District Council
http://www.ryedale.gov.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: foi@barrowbc.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 2:11 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI5541 RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
The Homelessness Strategy 2013-18 is published on the Barrow Borough Council website.
To answer the questions re: mapping and gapping of provision and excluded groups, the service was reviewed prior to writing the Strategy.
Section 2 of the Homelessness Strategy details what was covered by the review; I've copied the section below:
2. Homelessness in the area- A Review
In 2013, a review was carried out looking back at the previous 12 months with the aim of:
* Providing an evaluation
of the demographics and causes of homelessness in the borough
* Identifying how effective current provision is in meeting needs and
preventing homelessness
* Identify where there are gaps in service provision
* Use the above information to formulate BBC's priorities and objectives
moving forward
2.1. Key Findings
* Overall, the number of homeless presentations has decreased over the last 3 years as have the numbers of those presenting for advice and assistance. This is a reflection of BBC's commitment to preventing homelessness by addressing and identifying housing need prior to a person reaching 'crisis point' and statutory intervention being necessary, therefore reducing the number of statutory decisions needing to be made.
* Homeless acceptances generally include those with dependent children and/or expectant mothers, which follows the national trend. In the period 2012/13, of the 31 acceptances, 8 households had dependent children (25.8%). In the period 2013/14, of the 19 acceptances, 9 households had dependent children (47.4%). In the period 2014/15, of the 18 acceptances, 8 households had dependent children (44.4%).
* The Local Authority continue to provide advice and homelessness assistance to people who are vulnerable as a result of mental health. In terms of homelessness acceptances, the numbers with priority for mental health represent a significant proportion of the total number (45.2%, 21% and 38.9% for 2012/13, 2013/14 and 2014/15 respectively). Anecdotal data would indicate that we are providing advice and assistance to a growing number of people with mental health issues that particularly affect their ability to manage and sustain independent living.
* A large proportion of those approaching the Local Authority for advice and assistance or to make a homeless application are single people (males in particular) and this has remained relatively consistent over time. A key issue being their ability to access the private rented sector due to affordability.
* Those approaching for advice and assistance are typically those who are unemployed and benefit dependent. This is increasing in light of Welfare Reform and is expected to continue to rise with future changes
In terms of excluded groups, none have been identified. Barrow-in-Furness is more homogenous than other areas of the country so the Local Authority does not receive as many presentations from BMI groups but this is not because of the service structure, simply the demographics of Barrow.
Yours faithfully
Freedom of Information
Barrow-in-Furness Council
http://www.barrowbc.gov.uk/
From: FOI@sholland.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 1:34 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI - Strategy for tackling & preventing homelessness Ref:
SFOI-000396
Dear Mr Mortimer
The new strategy is currently going through a consultation process and is due for publication around September 2016.
http://www.boston.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=7797&p=0
Yours sincerely
FOI Team
South Holland District Council
http://www.sholland.gov.uk/
From: Tracy.Lindsay@southlanarkshire.gcsx.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 12:44 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: JulieAnn.Gallagher@southlanarkshire.gcsx.gov.uk;
Alison.Stewart@southlanarkshire.gcsx.gov.uk
Subject: Freedom of information request
I can advise that South Lanarkshire Council’s strategy for tackling and preventing homelessness in fully incorporated into the Council’s Local Housing Strategy in line with our legislative requirements. The current Local Housing Strategy covers the period 2012 to 2017. A full scoping exercise was undertaken prior to the completion of the Strategy. Work is currently being undertaken to identify issues and actions for our new Local Housing Strategy which is currently being developed. We continually review services and service provision to ensure that out homelessness provision is fit for purpose and meets the needs of our client group.
Tracy Lindsay
South Lanarkshire Council
http://www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk/
From: Karan.Shearwood@lincoln.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 12:33 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI4225 Homelessness
The Homelessness Review and Homelessness Strategy were reviewed and updated in 2013.
http://www.lincoln.gov.uk/searchResults.aspx?qsearch=1&keywords=homelessness+strategy&x=0&y=0
Many thanks.
Karan Shearwood
City of Lincoln Council
http://www.lincoln.gov.uk/
From: Stephen.Carter@camden.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 10:02 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: response to Information request (ref: 20513991)
Dear Mr. Mortimer
This contains all the details of our homeless strategy
http://democracy.camden.gov.uk/ieIssueDetails.aspx?IId=29204&Opt=3
Report of the Cabinet Member for Housing
Central government is continuing to implement a number of welfare changes including limiting housing benefit and the merging of several key working age benefits into a single universal credit. Housing in large areas of London is now unaffordable for the vast majority. The Camden Plan aims to reduce inequality while preserving the social mix, and welfare changes present a significant challenge, with many vulnerable people being put at increased risk of homelessness. This report highlights the difficulty that the council is facing in finding affordable property anywhere in London to prevent homelessness.
This report is coming to the Cabinet, as although the Council is exempt from the duty to produce a homelessness strategy under `The Local Authorities' Plans and Strategies (Disapplication) (England) (Amendment) Order 2009`, Camden has chosen to disregard this exemption as a matter of good practice in order to ensure continued compliance with recent case law, relating to producing a policy on the procurement of temporary accommodation and the placement of homeless families outside of the host borough.
Yours sincerely
Stephen Carter
Camden Council
https://www.camden.gov.uk/
From: JillHenson@southend.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 9:21 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Response - Freedom of Information Request : 04458
Dear Mr. Mortimer,
Our homelessness prevention strategy was last reviewed in 2014 when a 3 year strategy was produced covering 2014-2017. In creating the strategy, a large selection of partners were consulted and are listed on page 7 of the document.
http://www.southend.gov.uk/downloads/download/78/homelessness
As part of the process, a full equality analysis was carried out which drew on a wide variety of sources and included the impact strategy on each of the protected characteristics covered by the equalities legalisation (race, marriage and civil partnerships, maternity/pregnancy and carers).
The only negative impact was found to be on homeless people without recourse to public funds. The explanation for this is that local authorities are prevented by parts 6 & 7 of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended by the Homelessness Act 2002) from assisting those who are ineligible for housing assistance due to their immigration status.
Regards
Business Support Team
Southend-on-Sea Borough Council
http://www.southend.gov.uk/
From: foi@chorley.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 8:43 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI Request FOI/16/147 - Response
Dear Mr Mortimer
Chorley Council’s Prevention of Homelessness Strategy and Review 2016/19 was reviewed in the latter half of 2015 and published for consultation from 21st December 2015 to 21st February 2016, before being adopted by Executive Member decision on 1st March 2016.
An Integrated Impact Assessment was carried out concurrently with the review, and that took account of differing impact of the strategy on different cohorts of people of people, and no negative impacts were found. The review and strategy as required under sections 1 to 3 of the Homelessness Act 2002 contributes to a mapping exercise in itself in effect, and whilst no separate ‘mapping and gapping’ exercise was carried out separately, it is reasonable to state that the principles of a mapping exercise were part of the holistic process of reviewing homelessness and formulating a strategy.
There are currently 8 housing related support services for ‘excluded groups’ in the borough plus the commissioning of an accommodation finding service identified in the action plan, as part of the focus on homeless prevention has been providing services for groups who are classed as excluded, but it doesn’t mean they don’t get a service in this context.
Yours sincerely
Ally Lloyd
Chorley Council
http://main.chorley.gov.uk/
From: info.requests@leicester.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 8:36 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Response 9644
Dear Mr Mortimer
Homelessness Review and Proposals:
https://consultations.leicester.gov.uk/adult-social-care-health-and-housing/homelessness
Homelessness Strategy which is available to view or download from this page:
http://www.leicester.gov.uk/your-community/housing/homelessness/
Regards
Lynn Wyeth
Leicester City Council
http://www.leicester.gov.uk/
From: housing.customerserviceteam@falkirk.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, April 01, 2016 5:16 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information - 92197
In terms of tackling and preventing homeless, the issues are addressed within our strategic community plan and our local housing strategy. Both documents are reviewed every five years. The local housing strategy is reviewed on a yearly basis and a new LHS is currently being written for 2017 onwards 2011-2015. The strategic community plan will be superseded by the strategic outcomes and local delivery plan (SOLD) is currently under development. In addition to this review and analyse our performance and trends within performance indicators, our annual homelessness statement and our annual allocations outcomes paper. No homeless groups were excluded from these documents.
Any person wishing to present as homeless to the local authority must assist in the prevention of homelessness to anyone within their authority as detailed within the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001.
Yours Sincerely
Customer Services Team
Falkirk Council
http://www.falkirk.gov.uk/
From: lambethinformationrequests@lambeth.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, April 01, 2016 4:49 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Information request (ref: IR148933)
Homelessness Strategy 2012-17 can be found
https://www.lambeth.gov.uk/sites/default/files/ho-homelessness-strategy.pdf
and Homelessness Review 2014 at
http://www.lambeth.gov.uk/sites/default/files/ReviewofHomelessness2012.pdf
Yours sincerely
Richard Carter
London Borough of Lambeth
https://www.lambeth.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: andrew.foot@blackpool.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, April 01, 2016 4:04 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: 160277 Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear David,
Blackpool Council's Homelessness Prevention Strategy was last reviewed in 2014. The Strategy considered how best to prevent and alleviate homelessness for all people in the local community, including those returning to the borough from institutional settings elsewhere. It is not clear what is meant by a "mapping and gapping exercise", but the Strategy was comprehensive in reviewing how the diverse needs of different residents could be met. The most challenging cases are those involving people with Multiple and Complex Needs - a combination of homelessness, offending history, substance misuse and mental health problems. The Council works closely with the Blackpool Fulfilling Lives Multiple and Complex Needs project that has been awarded £10 million funding by the National Lottery over 7 years from 2014 to ensure that these residents get the help they need.
Yours sincerely
Andy Foot
Blackpool Council
http://www.blackpool.gov.uk
From: Vicky.Eagle@northdevon.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, April 01, 2016 2:58 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: North Devon Council - FOI 3957 - Response
Dear Mr Mortimer
I can confirm the Council’s Housing team are currently in the processing of reviewing and updating its Homelessness Prevention Policy which was affective from 1 March 2012 and published in January 2013. The Council also published a Homelessness Strategy covering 2008-2013 which is also in the process of being updated.
This policy is published on the Council’s website here.
http://www.northdevon.gov.uk/media/75590/ndc_homelessness_prevention_policy-2.pdf
Yours sincerely
Vicky Eagle
North Devon Council
http://www.northdevon.gov.uk/
From: jon.powell@bolton.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, April 01, 2016 12:38 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: State of the nations strategies for tackling & preventing
homelessness 2016
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Thank you for drawing our attention to this site and the detail of local authorities homelessness strategy approaches. Whilst I have yet to have opportunity to look through these in detail I certainly think this is a useful resource to enable Council's to reflect on other authority area approaches.
Regarding Bolton whilst we are due to refresh the detail of our homelessness action plan; the strategic approach based around four key priorities is designed with longevity in mind to ensure a sound framework for continued reflection and development of approaches overtime in particular given the extremely challenging funding environment in which homelessness focussed and related services operate. These have been maintained in clear sight through several rounds of ‘savings & efficiencies’ and service review in the reshaping of provision.
The four priorities are:
Priority 1: Homelessness prevention and sustainability
Continue emphasis towards prevention approaches and interventions to improve the sustainability of vulnerable households. This includes early interventions to prevent the loss of accommodation, money management support to create financially sustainable tenancies and mortgages and the provision of sustainable resettlement in cases of homelessness. Links to the development of wider life skills including education, training, financial capability and employment support will be made to enable greater chances of longer term stability.
Priority 2: Advice and access
Ensure access to quality advice and affordable, appropriate housing options for those who are most vulnerable and in highest need. Achieve a balance in allocations between the high/urgent need cases and those with general housing need; whilst addressing those who have been excluded.
Priority 3: Accessing interim accommodation
Reduce inappropriate use of temporary accommodation, increase through-put and ensure availability of suitable temporary/emergency accommodation when required. Ensure maintenance of viable and appropriate base line provision; including appropriate support and resettlement services.
Priority 4: Move-on and sustainable outcomes
Promote an adequate and varied supply of accommodation within social and private rented sectors as well as home ownership options for those in high/urgent need and wider housing need. Where appropriate, facilitate the provision of support and housing management practices that assist the long term resettlement of the needier households.
Within this context there are several emerging themes and areas of activity which present major challenges as well as opportunities which are now central to our development of our approach and focus in tackling homelessness going forwards, including:
Ø Very significant increase in the proportion of ‘single vulnerable’ people within statutory homelessness acceptances reflecting a more generalised picture in the very significant mismatch between demand and supply within an increasingly competitive bottom end of the housing market - those increasing unable to maintain and secure accommodation in this particular market being those with the least where-with-all and greatest range of vulnerabilities. The ongoing implications of Welfare Reform continue to create an ever more difficult and challenging environment in meeting these needs.
Ø Development of more joined up approaches in addressing the needs of individuals and households who have a disproportionate draw upon a range of public services - the homelessness agenda keys very neatly into the development of complex dependency / lifestyle approaches to public service provision.
Ø Continuing risks to extremely critical supported housing schemes for those experiencing homelessness. ‘Housing First’ approaches may well be in vogue and for many households experiencing homelessness this is often a preferred approach, however it is not a panacea and there is a definite need for supported accommodation provision for a range of individuals and families with very challenging behaviours and needs. Supported housing schemes run on very tight cost models – the emerging challenges being presented by ongoing Welfare Reform place a very real potential threat to the viability of this provision.
Jon Powell
Bolton Council
http://www.bolton.gov.uk/
From: InformationManagement@Hackney.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, April 01, 2016 12:12 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Your FOI request - ref FOI16-0316-11085
Dear David Mortimer
The Council's Homelessness Strategy was reviewed in September 2015. The relevant Equalities Impact Assessment was conducted at the time. The link to this on the Council's website can be found here:
http://mginternet.hackney.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=111&MId=3228
Kind regards
Noelle Savory
Hackney Council
http://www.hackney.gov.uk
From: Douglas.Marr@westlothian.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, April 01, 2016 11:17 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information
Dear David
The Homeless Strategy is currently under review as part of the Local Housing Strategy.
The last update to both the Local Housing Strategy was done in September 2015.
A mapping and gap exercise was not carried out under that review but as part of the development of the new Homeless Strategy this approach may be considered.
An Equalities Impact Assessment was done for the current Local Housing Strategy and Homeless Strategy to examine the groups that may be affected by the strategic approach taken.
As the new Local Housing Strategy and Homeless Strategy is developed consideration will be given to groups that are considered to be excluded as part of the development of the strategy.
Yours Sincerely
Douglas Marr
West Lothian Council
http://www.westlothian.gov.uk
From: FOIResponse@southend.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, April 01, 2016 10:24 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Response - Freedom of Information Request : 04458
Dear Mr. Mortimer,
Our homelessness prevention strategy was last reviewed in 2014 when a 3 year strategy was produced covering 2014-2017. In creating the strategy, a large selection of partners were consulted and are listed on page 7 of the document.
http://www.southend.gov.uk/downloads/download/78/homelessness
As part of the process, a full equality analysis was carried out which drew on a wide variety of sources and included the impact of the strategy on each of the protected characteristics covered by equalities legislation (race, disability, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, religion & belief, age, marriage and civil partnerships, maternity/pregnancy and carers).
The only negative impact was found to be on homeless people without recourse to public funds. The justification for this is that local authorities are prevented by parts 6 & 7 of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended by the Homelessness Act 2002) from assisting those who are ineligible for housing assistance due to their immigration status.
Regards
Business Support Team
Southend-on-Sea Borough Council
http://www.southend.gov.uk/
From: Jacqueline.Pye@dartford.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 31, 2016 3:45 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Peter.Dosad@dartford.gov.uk
Subject: FOI request
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Council’s Homelessness Strategy is currently being reviewed and a new Strategy will be developed from the review findings later this year.
The Council carried out an Equality Impact Assessment which found that there continues to be an adverse impact on those who are not owed a housing duty under homelessness legislation and in particular are aged between 18 and 35. There is also an adverse impact on those who have no recourse to public funds and are fleeing domestic abuse. This does not mean however, that these groups are necessarily ‘excluded’.
Regards
Jackie Pye BSc MA
Dartford Council
http://dartford.gov.uk/
From: customerrelations@wealden.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 31, 2016 2:42 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: 4564- FOI - Mortimer - 310316 - Outcome
Dear Mr Mortimer,
The Homelessness Review carried out in 2012/13 informed the strategy
http://www.wealden.gov.uk/Wealden/Residents/Housing_Health_and_Advice/Housing/Strategies_and_Policies/Housing_Homelessness_Strategy_2013_18.aspx
Yours sincerely,
Tony Earl
Wealden District Council
http://www.wealden.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: May.Read@southnorthants.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 31, 2016 2:33 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: State of the nations strategies for tackling & preventing
homelessness 2016
Please find below a link to our approved Housing and Homelessness Strategy
http://modgov.southnorthants.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=910
Regards
May Read
South Northamptonshire Council
http://www.southnorthants.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Sarah.Lindsay@surreyheath.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 31, 2016 2:32 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: 2018-873 RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear Mr Mortimer,
The Council’s Homelessness Strategy was reviewed in November 2014 and details for this enquiry, including methodology, can be found at:
http://www.surreyheath.gov.uk/residents/housing/homelessness-strategy-2013-18
Sarah Lindsay
Surrey Heath Borough Council
http://www.surreyheath.gov.uk/
From: C.Bown@southkesteven.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 31, 2016 1:05 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI request - Homelessness Strategy
Dear David
The current strategy (2012 to 2016) is on our website and this includes details of the review (November 2011) which was undertaken and priorities formed as a result of the review and consultation. A link to this is below:
http://www.southkesteven.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=3448&p=0
A new strategy will be available later this year. The emerging themes from a review, which was undertaken, are currently being consulted on. The new strategy will include the current review.
Kind regards,
Mrs Celia Bown
South Kesteven District Council
http://www.southkesteven.gov.uk/
From: Angela.Chu@merton.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 31, 2016 12:38 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: FOI F6847 - David Mortimer - target date 30 March
Dear Mr Mortimer,
We are currently reviewing our strategy for tackling and preventing homelessness and a draft Homelessness Strategy to 2020 will be published for public consultation in the summer of 2016. The current review includes an analysis of the representation of different groups amongst homeless households.
Regards,
Angela Chu
Merton Council
http://www.merton.gov.uk
From: debra.jarvis@powys.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 31, 2016 12:31 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Response F2016-5892 Homelessness
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Until the introduction of the Housing (Wales)
Act 2014, the Council was not required by statute to produce a Homeless
Strategy which included a review of homelessness services since
the 2002 Act. We are required to produce a Homelessness Strategy by
2018 in accordance with the 2014 Act and the process will require a
review of homelessness in order to inform the strategy. We are, therefore,
planning a review to take place during 2017.
Yours sincerely,
Debra Jarvis
Powys County Council
http://www.powys.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Cherrill.Spencer@south-derbys.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 31, 2016 12:28 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act. - 1516-538
Dear Mr Mortimer,
A Homelessness Review was undertaken in 2013 and forms part of the Council’s current Homelessness Prevention Strategy - a copy can be found on the Council's website see link below.
http://www.south-derbys.gov.uk/housing/homelessness/consultation/default.asp
The action plan identifies the gaps to be addressed.
Kind regards.
Cherrill Spencer
South Derbyshire District Council
http://www.south-derbys.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: JRegan@swindon.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 31, 2016 8:44 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
David
A Diversity Impact Assessment was carried out in December on the draft Homelessness Strategy 2016.
The assessment identified that people who are homeless or living in inadequate housing, and who are from abroad with no recourse to public funds are likely to be excluded. This is a matter of national policy however.
Also, conversations with interested groups raised the issue that the Lesbian Gay Bi-sexual and Transgender community are at risk of violence or exclusion by family, particularly at the time that they inform their families of their sexuality. A lack of accommodation for homeless people could exacerbate issues that these individuals experience.
Janet Regan
Swindon Borough Council
http://www.swindon.gov.uk
From: Ann-Marie.McGinn@oldham.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 5:37 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: FOI.Responses@oldham.gov.uk
Subject: FOI 8215 Strategy for tackling preventing homelessness
Our strategy has recently been reviewed and a new Working Together to Prevent Homelessness in Oldham 2016-21 will be in place with effect 1st April 2016.
The strategy itself does not exclude or discriminate directly or indirectly as regards any particular groups. Initiatives developed as a result of the strategy will be focussed towards the main causes of homelessness as they present within Oldham and are intended to support households who are more vulnerable to homelessness issues.
Ann-Marie McGinn
Oldham Council
http://www.oldham.gov.uk/
From: kerry.standen@denbighshire.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 4:19 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI Response 708
Dear Mr Mortimer
The last review of the homelessness strategy was carried out pre 2006
and we are just about to start work on a new Homelessness
Strategy.
This will involve identifying gaps in provision
and addressing priorities. We will also follow guidance for the
Welsh Government which requires a Homelessness Strategy to be produced
by 2018 .
Yours sincerely
Kerry Standen
Denbighshire County Council
http://www.denbighshire.gov.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: foi@midsussex.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 4:16 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act. Our Ref: R 4429
Dear Mr Mortimer,
The Council's Homelessness Strategy is currently in the process of being reviewed.
yours sincerely,
FOI/DPA Team
Mid Sussex Council
http://www.midsussex.gov.uk/
From: foi@peterborough.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 4:14 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Response (No CRN1603095279)
Peterborough Homelessness
Strategy was last reviewed in 2013. As part of the review process a
full review, both nationally and locally was undertaken, which mapped
out the current provision and identified the gaps and the future pressures.
The review identified that rough sleepers with
Mental Health issues were unable to obtain Mental Health Assessments,
unless they were accessed via the normal referral routes and there is
insufficient accommodation provision for those who are assessed as Chronically
Excluded.
The Homelessness Strategy is a 5 year action plan, informed by the review,
which highlights these gaps. We are seeking to address these by working
with our partners over the course of the strategy. The Homelessness
Strategy is due to be reviewed in the coming months to ensure the objectives
identified remain current and any emerging themes or gaps are identified.
Yours faithfully
Tracey Wright
Peterborough City Council
https://www.peterborough.gov.uk/
From: FOI@south-ayrshire.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 4:00 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Communications@south-ayrshire.gov.uk
Subject: RE: 2016 6213
Dear Mr Mortimer
Thank you for your information enquiry, relating to when the Council’s strategy for tackling and preventing homelessness was last reviewed, received on 15th March 2016. Due to the nature of your request, it has been dealt with under the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002.
I can confirm that the Council’s Local Housing Strategy, which is a 5 year strategic plan to address housing and related issues across the Council, includes actions relating to the prevention and alleviation of homelessness. Our current LHS covers the period 2011-2016, and we are in the process of developing our next strategy for the period 2017-2022. A specific theme within this strategy will focus on ‘Access, Advice and Support’ which covers how the Council should address homelessness over the next 5 years. An extensive consultation period is carried out when developing our LHS to ensure that all groups have the opportunity to express their views. The extensive consultation we carry out is the mapping and gapping exercise. All groups are consulted – no one is excluded. A copy of the current LHS can be found on the Council’s website -
http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/housingstrategy/lhs
There is also a pan-Ayrshire Health and Homelessness Action plan which seeks to address the health issues experienced by many homeless households across East, North and South Ayrshire. These authorities work in partnership to develop and implement the action plan and also work with our partners in the NHS, Addictions Services, Public Health and Mental Health services.
Kind Regards
DEBORAH McVEY
South Ayrshire Council
http://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/
From: foi@scambs.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 3:03 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI Request: Homelessness Strategy - Ref:RFI43061
Homelessness Strategy 2013 and Homeless Review 2013:
https://www.scambs.gov.uk/content/housing-strategy-and-policy
Yours sincerely,
The Information Management
Team
South Cambridgeshire Council
https://www.scambs.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Bryan.Kane@inverclyde.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 11:28 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI/16/261
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Inverclyde Council are aware of the numerous studies regarding the cost and health implications for homelessness people. Inverclyde Council is committed to preventing and tackling homelessness whenever possible.
Many thanks
Bryan Kane, SSA
Inverclyde Council
http://www.inverclyde.gov.uk
From: yvonne.jones-wilson@flintshire.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 10:45 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI Enquiry: R011773
Dear Mr Mortimer
Flintshire County Council is committed to preventing homelessness and during 2014, piloted the Welsh Government's new statutory homeless prevention duties before these were introduced throughout Wales in April 2015, by the Housing Act (Wales) 2014. (For information, the aim of the new statutory duty is to ensure that no individuals are excluded from homelessness prevention services.)
In accordance with a requirement within the Housing Act (Wales) 2014, the Council will shortly be producing a revised Homelessness Strategy. However, like the current Homelessness Strategy, the revised strategy will be complimented & supported by the Flintshire Supporting People Local Commissioning Plan (LCP).
The 2014-2016 and 2016-18 commissioning plans have identified gaps in service provision around 'mental heath' and 'males fleeing domestic abuse'. Consequently, key new services have been introduced within these areas and these services will support homeless prevention duties.
Yours sincerely
Yvonne Jones-Wilson
Flintshire County Council
http://www.flintshire.gov.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: freedomofinformation@wakefield.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 10:12 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Request 8778
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Council last reviewed its Homelessness Strategy in 2014. As part of the review consultation was undertaken with members of Wakefield District Homelessness Forum and other key partner organisations, members of the public and elected members. The purpose of the consultation was to seek a broad range of views of what the new homelessness strategy should focus on. No specific groups within the community were identified as excluded. Feedback received from the consultation was subsequently incorporated into the new Homelessness Strategy and Delivery Plan 2014-2019 a copy of which can be viewed by following this link :
Principal Information Governance
Officer
Wakefield MDC
http://www.wakefield.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: sue.marriott@basildon.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 10:01 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Response
Basildon Council's Homeless Prevention Strategy was last reviewed in September 2015. This review did not include a mapping and gapping exercise.
Groups identified as being at increased risk of homelessness are specified in the strategy which is already publicly available at:
http://www.basildon.gov.uk/article/5452/Homelessness-Prevention-Strategy-2014-2018
Yours sincerely
Sue Marriott
Basildon Borough Council
http://www.basildon.gov.uk/
From: AdultServicesFOI@bury.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 9:56 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: Freedom of Information Request 5108 MORTIMER
Dear David
Bury Council reviewed its Homeless Strategy in 2015. It has developed a fresh approach for the years commencing 2015- 2018. This was approved by Cabinet members on the 4th November 2015.
The review recognised that a lack of affordable housing, financial worries and relationship breakdowns are creating gaps in society. Therefore the new Homeless Strategy has defined five key priorities for the future:
1. Understanding needs
2. Focusing on prevention
3. Good quality
4. Strong leadership and management
5. Building an effective and sustainable approach to provision
The new Homeless Strategy can be located on:
http://www.bury.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=17172&p=0
Also linked to identifying gaps and needs in homeless provision, Bury Council is in the process of finalising its review of Supporting People housing related services. This includes floating support and supported accommodation. The outcomes of the review will be shared with current housing providers and stakeholders in the near future.
Yours sincerely
Name: Ahmed Ajmi
Bury Council
http://www.bury.gov.uk/
From: FOI@nelincs.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 8:32 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Request reference 1639_1516
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Our current homelessness strategy is due for review now. When it was developed services were indeed mapped, and a full consultation exercise was undertaken. There were found to be no groups that were excluded at that time.
Yours sincerely
Feedback Officer
North East Lincolnshire Council
http://www.nelincs.gov.uk/
From: FreedomofInformation@brighton-hove.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 30, 2016 7:49 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: foi6176: RESPONSE PROVIDED
The strategy was reviewed in 2014 – a link below takes you to the committee report and the actual strategy is attached in the appendix.
In reviewing and developing the strategy regard was had to the following which involved some gap analysis:
Housing & Support Needs Assessment for Young People 2012
Single Homeless & Rough Sleeper Needs Assessment 2013
Substance Misuse Needs Assessment 2013-14
Homeless Health Needs Audit 2014
In addition recommendations of Overview and Scrutiny committee regarding homelessness in the city and amongst transgender population was also incorporated.
We are currently in the process of developing a rough sleeping strategy.
Brighton & Hove City
Council
http://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk
From: foi@southtyneside.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 29, 2016 6:27 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 16.16514 RE: Request for information under the freedom
of information act.
Dear Mr Mortimer
Please see the following link to the current Homeless Strategy 2013-2018:
http://www.southtyneside.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=19062&p=0
The strategy sets out the Council’s priorities for tackling homelessness. The action plan sets out the aims and objectives to prevent homelessness through early intervention and prevention, working in partnership with, and supported by the private and voluntary sector. The action plan is monitored and reviewed through the Homeless Forum. A review of the strategy is currently taking place and part of this process includes identifying trends and emerging needs and gaps in existing services that may not meet increasing demand.
A key component of this mapping exercise is consultation with members of the Homeless Forum, which includes other social housing providers and established local community group representatives from Apna Ghar and the Commission for Racial Equality in South Tyneside and National Charities, Shelter, Crisis and Homeless Link who often represent the most excluded groups. Young people’s views are captured through group sessions with the Young Person’s Coordinator from DePaul Charity UK.
During this consultation period, we would welcome any views from interested parties and if you wish to contribute to this process, please contact our Homeless Prevention Lead, Angela Lamonte at angela.lamonte@southtyneside.gov.uk
Regards
Information Governance
South Tyneside Council
http://www.southtyneside.gov.uk/
From: Janet.Morris@calderdale.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 29, 2016 4:14 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Request reference 5326
Dear Mr Mortimer
The 2015 - 2020 homelessness strategy went through Cabinet last year and is available on the website.
http://www.calderdale.gov.uk/housing/homelessness/homelessness-strategy.pdf
Kind regards
Janet Morris
CMBC Democratic & Partnership Services
http://www.calderdale.gov.uk/
From: FOI-advice@tauntondeane.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 29, 2016 4:02 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Request for information under the freedom of information act.
- ref. TD1231
Dear Requester
The current Homelessness Strategy was last reviewed in 2013 though it may have been 2014 by the time the document was signed off.
We didn't undertake a gapping exercise as such but we did review the data that was available about the groups of people that were applying as homeless and approaching for prevention advice. We don't believe this identified any groups that were excluded as such but some groups were identified as needing extra help.
Regards
FOI Administration Desk
Taunton Deane Borough Council and West Somerset Council
http://www.tauntondeane.gov.uk/
From: foi@derbyshiredales.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 29, 2016 11:56 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Request: FOI/826/16
Dear David Mortimer
The Homelessness Strategy of Derbyshire Dales District Council is currently being reviewed. Mapping & gapping exercise are being carried out at this time & therefore no analysis have been carried out to identify which if any groups are excluded in the community. The new Homelessness Strategy will run 2016 to 2021.
Yours sincerely
Freedom of Information Officer
Derbyshire Dales District Council
http://www.derbyshiredales.gov.uk/
From: contactcentre@sthelens.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 29, 2016 11:47 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: St.Helens Council Freedom Of Information Request ref: 20160315-00170-1
Hi David
The current startegy is under review and our intention is to focus on achieving the Gold Standard. No groups are intended to be excluded.
-----Original Message-----
From: foi@orkney.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 29, 2016 11:34 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: 2016-0287 Request for information under the freedom of
information act.
Our Homelessness Strategy was developed in 2011 and runs to 2016. It is underpinned by a detailed Profile of Homelessness which outlines the issues affecting homelessness in Orkney. The purpose of the strategy is to ensure we are as well equipped as possible to prevent and address homelessness and consequently it shouldn't exclude any groups.
A review will be undertaken shortly so a new Homelessness Strategy should be developed for 2017.
Kind regards
George Vickers
Orkney Islands Council
http://www.orkney.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: FOI@preston.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 29, 2016 10:49 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
I can advise you that the latest strategy, informed by a mapping exercise, was published in 2014. The strategy did not identify any excluded groups
Yours sincerely,
P. Ashcroft
Preston City Council
http://www.preston.gov.uk/
From: Tanya.Davies@gloucester.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 29, 2016 8:55 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: re. Matter 012271
The City Council's Housing & Homelessness Strategy was approved in March 14. In producing the strategy, a range of data relating to homelessness and different population groups was evaluated. Since the strategy was put in place, a range of indicators are monitored to evaluate homelessness, and at present a first annual review is underway to consider progress in relation to the strategic objectives contained within the document. The Strategy considers particular groups who may be at risk of homelessness and the strategic objectives are concerned with responding to those risks.
Kind Regards
Tanya Davies
Gloucester City Council
http://www.gloucester.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: info@moray.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 28, 2016 4:12 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Request for Information Under the Freedom of Information (Scotland)
Act 2002
Dear Mr Mortimer
The overall aim of the Homelessness Strategy is “to prevent homelessness where possible, but when it does arise, to ensure that appropriate assistance and support is provided”. The Council’s Communities Committee has monitored the progress of the Homelessness Strategy and agreed the strategic direction of the strategy on an annual basis.
The Homelessness Strategy was last reviewed in 2015. This was a twofold process which involved: the review of the Homelessness Strategy Action Plan for 2014/15 and an update of the achievements of the Homelessness Strategy 2010 – 2015. These were reported to Communities Committee in May 2015; and the development of a further strategy for 2015 – 2018. A draft strategy was presented to the Communities Committee in August 2015. Thereafter a consultation was undertaken and a final draft was presented for agreement and implementation in October 2015. Although the completion of a Homelessness Strategy is now optional for local authorities, the Moray Council and its partners saw real benefits from having such a strategy in place. It was agreed that when the Homelessness Strategy ends in 2018, it is merged with the Local Housing Strategy.
The actions identified focus on delivering the strategic objectives combined with issues that have been highlighted from annual data trends for housing options, homelessness, housing support and temporary accommodation. Again, these trends are monitored, analysed and reported to the Council’s Communities Committee.
As part of the strategy development an Equalities Impact Assessment was undertaken. This identified that homeless applications only collate basic equalities information (age, ethnicity, gender, disability) which has been used to develop the strategy. No direct demographic data of homeless service users pertaining to all of the characteristics protected under the Equality Act 2010 is available. At present it is felt that service users are not confident enough to disclose sensitive information such as religion or belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment. No negative impacts on groups were identified. No groups were identified as being “excluded in our community.”
Copies of the reports can be accessed here:
http://www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_103575.html
Homelessness Strategy 2010 – 2015
Homelessness Strategy 2015 – 2018
Moray Homelessness Strategy 2015 – 2018
Yours sincerely
Sophie Ward
The Moray Council
http://www.moray.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: records@aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2016 5:52 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act. - FOI 5026
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Housing and Homelessness Strategy Action Plan 2014-2017 was last reviewed in September 2015 and is currently being reviewed again. An Equalities Impact Assessment (EIA) of the Strategy was carried out in October 2013 and is up for renewal in October 2016. The EIA states that no groups were excluded from the benefits of the Strategy.
Kind regards
Francisca Harpur
Aylesbury Vale District Council
http://www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/
From: Norman.Miles@milton-keynes.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2016 2:29 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Subject: Re: Milton Keynes councils housing policy has not & will
not deal with the growing problem of homelessness.
Dear Mr Mortimer.
I have now had an opportunity to discuss the points you raised, with Cllr Hannah O’Neill, Cabinet Member for Housing.
She responds as below.
I would fully support her view. I’m afraid I do not agree with your suggestion about stopping the regeneration programme in favour of tackling homeless since the project is, of course, a part of the longer term solution to insufficient number and types of housing. I am very strongly committed to the Council “bottom up” approach to regeneration, with the fullest possible consultation with residents. The regeneration project is at a very early stage in its planning.
I hope this repos eyes helpful, even if not entirely agreeing with your suggestion.
By the way, I expect you are aware I am not a councillor for your ward, though of course Regeneration is a “whole-city” issue.
Regards
Cllr Norman Miles
Wolverton Ward
“After studying the papers I believe the regeneration programme is imperative to supporting communities in most need. It is of great concern to me that in the most deprived areas of this City unemployment is double the MK average and people live 11 years less than residents who live across a road from them, this isn't acceptable and I believe tackling this inequality is in the interests of those people I represent. It is also important to remember that regeneration will be a community led scheme and communities will have the say on proposals.
Whilst I support regeneration I also think work need to happen on homelessness and I do not believe it is a case of one or the other, indeed, they are funded from different areas. This administration has already introduced a number of alternatives to B&B and last week agreed the findings of a task and finish group looking at homelessness, this included the setting up of an umbrella organisation that supports people who find themselves homeless.
Homelessness will continue to rise whilst we have a government that turns a blind eye to the housing crisis, the main reason people present to us as homeless is because they couldn't afford the increase in rents in the private sector, this is a national issue that needs a holistic response.”
[Cllr Hannah O’Neill; Canine Member for Housing]
From: Freedomofinformation@torbay.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2016 11:39 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Response: FOI request ref. 15161236
Dear Mr Mortimer
Our Homelessness strategy was last reviewed in 2015. The final strategy and action plan was approved in February 2016 and is available on the Torbay Council website at: http://www.torbay.gov.uk/index/yourservices/housing/housingadvice/homelessprevention/homelessnessstrategy.htm
Yes, a mapping exercise was carried out (detailed in the Homelessness strategy documents)
We identified areas where there were high need and gaps in services, rather than ‘groups who were excluded in your community’
These are all detailed in our Homelessness strategy.
Angela Hellier
Information Compliance Officer
Torbay Council
http://www.torbay.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: foi@rutland.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2016 10:53 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: 298 16 FOI - Final responce from Rutland County Council
Dear David,
The Council produced its last statutory review of Homelessness Services in October 2011. This led to the development of the Council’s Homelessness Strategy 2012-17.
Regards
Freedom of Information
Rutland County Council
http://www.rutland.gov.uk/
From: Lisa.Cresswell@iow.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2016 10:37 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Request - iw16/3/23575
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Anyone can access homelessness services but only if they are eligible (based on immigration status) so no-one is ‘excluded’.
Yours sincerely
Lisa Cresswell
Housing Support Officer
Isle of Wight Council
http://www.iwight.com
From: GailRedmond@purbeck-dc.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2016 10:21 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: DianeBroomfield@purbeck-dc.gov.uk
Subject: 3040 Freedom of Information Request - Homelessness
Dear Mr Mortimer
The previous Dorset Homeless Strategy 2008 to 2013 was reviewed during 2014/15 with a new Strategy to 2020 being adopted in 2015.
The analysis of current services did not find any groups who were excluded and the Impact Equality Assessment did not produce anything of relevant concern.
Yours sincerely
Mrs Gail Redmond
Freedom of Information Link Officer
Purbeck District Council
https://www.dorsetforyou.com/
From: foi@middlesbrough.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2016 9:45 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RESPONSE TO FREEDOM OF INFORMATION REQUEST - REF NO: 009392
Dear Mr Mortimer
Preventing homeless strategy 2015’ and ‘Middlesbrough Homelessness Review 2013
http://www.middlesbrough.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=8038&p=0
http://www.middlesbrough.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=8037&p=0
Yours sincerely
Steph Robson
Freedom of Information Officer
Middlesbrough Council
http://www.middlesbrough.gov.uk/
From: smatthews@melton.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2016 9:31 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI Request
Dear David Mortimer
Melton Borough Council’s homelessness strategy is currently under review, there is no evidence as yet that any groups in the community are excluded
Kind Regards
Sarah Matthews
Melton Borough Council
http://www.melton.gov.uk/
From: ella.malyon@stalbans.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2016 9:30 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: FOI@stalbans.gov.uk
Subject: FOI Response
Dear Mr Mortimer,
The current Homelessness Strategy action plan is available to view on our website-see link below;
The above Strategy was last reviewed in July 2013 and is due to expire after July 2016, it came about after a series of consultations. In order to complete this strategy the Housing Options Co-Ordinator gathered statistical evidence around homelessness in the District and used this to form a basis for a consultation with Partners and Stakeholders.
The initial part of the consultation process for this strategy was an anonymous survey via a questionnaire of people who had used homeless services within the district. The service users were asked a series of questions around their experiences of being homeless such as why they were homeless, problems they faced when homeless as well as what or who could have helped prevent them from being homeless. Some of the respondents had slept on the streets; others had accessed emergency accommodation or relied on the generosity of friends and family. We wanted to ensure we included as many sections of the community as possible in the consultation. Therefore the interviews, in relation to the questionnaire, took place with service users across a range of local services, including the local night shelter, Mother and Baby units, Supported Accommodation, Accommodations Solutions at Herts County Council, the Women’s Refuge and also a drop in centre for people that were socially disadvantaged. These services were from a range of agencies represented at the Homeless Forum (quarterly meeting involving local partners) which monitored the previous Homeless Strategy from 2008 – 2013. These included stakeholders providing services from short term accommodation or day services for homeless people through to more specialist services.
Based on the information from the questionnaires, a consultation event was held in March 2013. Stakeholders, Key Partners and District Councillors were all invited to attend. Workshops were held covering different topics as well as presentations by the Housing Portfolio Holder, Council Staff, Homeless Link and the StARSS scheme.
In July 2013 the Homelessness Strategy & Action Plan was sent to Cabinet for approval and was subsequently adopted. It has been continually monitored by the Homelessness Forum and Homeless Partnership Board and has been reviewed and updated in July 2014 and February 2015.
Kind regards
Ella Malyon
St Albans City & District Council
http://www.stalbans.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: EmmaEdwards@ynysmon.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2016 9:05 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Resppnse 1505 FOI
Dear Mr Mortimer
Isle of Anglesey County Council last Review of Homelessness and Strategy for the Future was published in 2007.
The Council has a duty under the Housing (Wales) Act 2014 to adopt a homelessness strategy in 2018. A number of North Wales authorities intend to work collaboratively to review homelessness in the area and to produce a Strategy. This will be taken forward in 2017. In the meantime Anglesey Housing department intends to work to produce an interim strategy which will include an exercise to identify gaps in existing provision.
Regards
Emma Edwards
Isle of Anglesey County Council
http://www.anglesey.gov.uk/
From: Simon.Bain@midlothian.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2016 7:29 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Request
Dear David,
Midlothian Council reviews it’s housing strategy (including those people threatened with / experiencing homelessness) on a regular basis with a range of key partners.
I have provided a web link below to the Local Housing Strategy 2013-17 for further information.
http://www.midlothian.gov.uk/downloads/file/6014/midlothian_local_housing_strategy_2013-2017
Regards,
Simon Bain
Housing Services Manager
http://www.midlothian.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Ric.Brackenbury@stroke.org.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 9:59 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Subject: Re: Potentially catastrophic effects for Tory & potential
Tory candidates & anyone who has not opposed their regeneration
policy.
David,
I wouldn't support such a proposal. I'm aware there are misgivings particularly in Bradville but the council is doing this very carefully with cross-party committees and resident involvement throughout. When firm plans are on the table, feel free to object but there is the potential for this programme to greatly assist with our housing issues and I feel it would be premature to stop at this stage.
Best wishes
Cllr Ric Brackenbury
Representing Springfield, Downs Barn, Downhead Park, Campbell Park,
Bolbeck Park, Willen Park, Pennyland, Woolstone, Old Woughton, Simpson
and Ashland on Milton Keynes Council
From: info@lancaster.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 4:38 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 0152 - Homelessness Strategy
Dear David
March 2104 a 5 year strategy was presented to members . The review took
place between Jan 2014-March 2014.
An action plan was drawn up looking at vulnerable groups at the time
of the review was carried out, no groups were
identified as excluded in the community as part of the review.
Derek Whiteway
Lancaster City Council
http://www.lancaster.gov.uk/
From: InformationRights@nottinghamcity.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 4:21 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Nottingham City Council FOI Response - IG 7316
Dear Mr Mortimer
The five-year Nottingham
Interagency Homelessness Prevention Strategy was developed and launched
in 2013. Delivery of the strategy is coordinated through a strategic
implementation group of partners from a broad range of statutory, non-statutory,
community and voluntary sector services. This collective partnership
meets monthly and works to an annual action plan which is developed
following a comprehensive review of homelessness and the strategy implementation
every year. The annual review of the strategy takes place every July.
It was last reviewed in July 2015 and will be reviewed again in July
2016.
https://nottinghaminsight.org.uk/f/64986/Library/Housing/Key-Strategies-and-Plans/
Kind regards,
Information Officer
Nottingham City Council
http://www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/
From: LWilliams@dorset.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 4:19 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear Mr Mortimer
West Dorset District Council
(WDDC) and Weymouth and Portland Borough Council (WPBC) in 2014 reviewed
its Homeless Prevention Strategy and adopted the strategy for 2014-2019,
(see
following link to document):
The review
process included analysis of gaps, and identified service provision
for socially excluded groups.
In addition, our Councils also work with other Dorset partner authorities
to develop the
countywide Dorset Homeless Strategy 2015-2019, which has also been adopted
by WDDC and WPBC. The review process for this
strategy also included analysis of gaps, and also identified service
provision for socially excluded groups. Details of the review
process and of the provision for excluded groups can be found in the
Strategy documents.
Yours sincerely
Liz Williams
North Dorset District Council
https://www.dorsetforyou.com/
From: CRT.FOI@reading.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 4:09 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Your FOI response 7655
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Reading Borough Council reviewed it’s Homelessness Strategy in July 2015. The results are pending from an online consultation on the draft of the Homelessness Strategy 2016-2021, this is available for responses until the 23rd of March. The Homelessness Strategy 2016-2021 will be published in May 2016 to incorporate views obtained through consultation. To see the draft strategy in full please follow the link below:
http://www.reading.gov.uk/homelessness2016
The draft Strategy encompasses a review of progress since the 2008-2013 Preventing Homelessness Strategy as well as a needs analysis to determine the areas of emphasis for the 2016 strategy.
Yours sincerely
Mr N Bullough
Reading Borough Council
http://www.reading.gov.uk/
From: ERutherford@north-ayrshire.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 3:33 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Information Request - Our Ref : NAC/11878/2016
Dear David Mortimer
The North Ayrshire Council Homelessness Prevention agenda is under continued review and development in line with the Scottish Local Authorities integrated response to the National Prevention of Homelessness Strategy supported by the Scottish Gvt through the housing options hubs.
All Scottish Local Authorities have a statutory duty to deliver a homelessness strategy which says how we will prevent and alleviate homelessness having undertaken a detailed analysis of need and demand. This strategy incorporates all partner agencies and maps current provision and future need. The current Strategy is incorporated into the Council's Local Housing Strategy 2013-2016, we are in the process of developing the LHS 2017-22.
In addition to the above, the Scottish Gvt has provided Guidance on homelessness prevention, Advice and Information and Housing Options, all of which direct local authorities to consider the needs and risk factors of various groups within our communities.
Yours sincerely
Elaine Rutherford
FOI Co-ordinator
http://www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/
From: jenny.pearce@harlow.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 3:04 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RFI 2048196 - Final - 23.03.16
Dear Mr Mortimers
The Homelessness Strategy was reviewed in 2013/14 and is monitored through the Harlow Homeless Partnership. A copy of the Homelessness Strategy can be found on the Councils website together with the delivery plan which identifies any gaps and priorities.
Jenny Pearce
PA to Head of Housing
http://www.harlow.gov.uk
From: PSHousing@SouthNorthants.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 3:01 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FoI Request 101000015292
Dear Mr Mortimer,
South Northants Councils’ Homelessness Strategy was last reviewed 2014/15. A homelessness review was completed by external consultants in 2014. This review informed our current Housing and Homelessness Strategy 2015 – 2018.
Kind Regards,
Dami Aina
South Northants Council
http://www.southnorthants.gov.uk
From: Angela.Horsey@runnymede.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 1:53 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: foi@runnymede.gov.uk
Subject: Our reference: 16.03.25 Request for information under the freedom
of information act.
Mr Mortimer,
We last reviewed our Homelessness Strategy in 2014 and we have a two year Strategy 2014-2016 which is available on the Councils’ website https://www.runnymede.gov.uk/article/4458/Search?q=homeless+strategy&go=Go
The current Strategy includes a detailed review of our services since the previous Strategy was produced and an action plan for the life of the Strategy. Our objectives are monitored by the Homelessness Task Group which is an external stakeholder and partner group that meets quarterly. We will be reviewing our Strategy later this year with a view to producing a 5 year Strategy for 2017 - 2021. That process will include a review of our services over the period 2014 to 2016 and all client groups.
Angela Horsey
Runnymede Borough Council
http://www.runnymede.gov.uk/
From: FOIWest@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 1:42 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: 3886655 Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Cheshire West and Chester’s Homelessness Strategy was published in April 2015 and was based on the findings of a full homelessness review.
The Homelessness Review 2014 was a comprehensive examination of available data looking at current and likely future levels of homelessness, an audit of services available to the homeless, and the resources available to tackle homelessness. The Homelessness Review identified a number of key findings but it was very clear that a focus on prevention and support services were the key to tackling homelessness and also made financial sense. The Homelessness Strategy’s priorities are based on the findings of the Review and are:
1. Reduce levels of homelessness and prioritise prevention
2. End the use of Bed and Breakfast and improve temporary accommodation
3. Improve access to permanent accommodation and support
Under Section 16 of the Freedom of Information Act 2000, “the duty on public authorities to provide advice and assistance”, the Council’s Homelessness Review and Strategy documents are available on the Council’s website on the following link:
Yours sincerely,
Solutions Team
Cheshire West and Chester Council
http://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/
From: foi@hyndburnbc.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 1:13 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Hyndburn Borough Council - Freedom of Information Response
4124
Dear Mr. Mortimer,
Hyndburn's Homelessness Strategy was last reviewed in 2013 leading to the production of the current strategy for the 2014-2019 period.
The review was 'light touch' and we did not undertake a formal / structured 'mapping and gapping' exercise as part of this review. We undertook an Equality impact Assessment / Customer first analysis of the review which did not identify any groups who were excluded in our community.
Yours sincerely
FOI Co-ordinator
http://www.hyndburnbc.gov.uk/
From: informationofficer@hastings.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 1:07 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Hastings Borough Council Request for Information Ref: 16/204
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Our new Homelessness Strategy was adopted by Cabinet in March 2016 and was informed by the Hastings Homelessness Review 2015, which involved extensive consultation. The Homelessness Strategy was also available for a 12 week public consultation, which the Council advertised widely.
Yours sincerely,
Lisa Greathead
Information Officer
Hastings Borough Council
http://www.hastings.gov.uk
From: Freedom.ofInformation@knowsley.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 11:16 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: F2016.03.2142 - Homelessness Strategy/Review
Dear Mr Mortimer,
In accordance with the statutory requirement the Council undertook a comprehensive review of homelessness in 2015. This review included a ‘mapping and gapping’ exercise in that it investigated the levels and causes of homelessness and the resources/tools available for tackling them. The review did not identify any groups who are excluded in Knowsley.
A draft strategy, informed by the review findings, is currently being prepared which will be presented the Cabinet for approval in June 2016. Once the strategy has been approved it will be published and made available on the Council’s website and will appear on this
http://www.knowsley.gov.uk/your-council/policies,-plans-and-strategies/place
Kind regards,
Freedom of Information
Knowsley MBC
http://www.knowsley.gov.uk/
From: Kulwant.Ghaleigh@birmingham.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 11:16 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Paul.Campbell@birmingham.gov.uk;
Safina.Mistry@birmingham.gov.uk
Subject: FOI 14463 - Info Supply
Dear Mr Mortimer
The last review of Birmingham’s Homelessness Strategy was carried out as part of a Homelessness Review completed in 2011. This covered the 2008 Homelessness Strategy. The 2011 Homelessness Review included work with a range of homeless individuals and households including rough sleepers, single homeless persons; Young People 16-15 (National Youth Reference Group); Families with children; Couples and Singles in Temporary Accommodation; customers using the BCC Home Options service; women in specialist refuge accommodation; and a citizens panel represented by people in receipt of housing related support services, as such there was a not a specific ‘mapping and gapping’ exercise undertaken as per your FOI question, moreover this programme of engagement and consultation was completed alongside a review of homeless data sources and government policy and legislation relevant to or related to homelessness.
Kind regards
Kulwant Ghaleigh
Birmingham City Council
http://www.birmingham.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Claire.Lilly@cotswold.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 10:50 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: foi@cotswold.gov.uk
Subject: Re: Request for information under the freedom of information
act. - 16127
Dear Mr. Mortimer
1) Our current document which
includes the Homelessness Strategy is the "Housing Plan 2012-2016"
The strategy is currently under review as part of the draft Housing
Plan 2016 - 2020,
2) All relevant strategic methods were used in the development of our
current Homelessness Strategy (combined with the Housing Plan 2012-2016)
3) Specific groups were identified within the
existing Housing Plan 2012 - 2016.
Kind Regards
Claire Lilly
Cotswold District Council
http://www.cotswold.gov.uk
-----Original Message-----
From:informationrequests@wokingham.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 10:29 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: WBCIR:7386
Dear Mr David Mortimer,
Our existing Homelessness Strategy was implemented in 2014 and covers the period up to 2019. It forms part of our overall Housing Strategy (2015 – 2018); the majority of actions within the Homelessness Strategy Action Plan are picked up within the Housing Strategy Action Plan. This plan is monitored on a quarterly basis.
Prior to implementing the Homelessness Strategy we undertook a comprehensive Homelessness Review in 2012. This examined trends within the local housing market and trends within local homelessness and the issues leading up to homelessness. We mapped out the needs of specific groups against the services which are provided by ourselves and our partners. These included young people, those suffering from domestic abuse, those suffering from alcohol or drug addictions, rough sleepers, those with mental health problems, vulnerable older people and ex-offenders.
The exercise did not identify any groups we weren’t aware of. Our emphasis continues to be on pro-active and creative solutions to the issues surrounding homelessness as much as possible. Our priorities within the Homelessness Strategy are to:
Help people
keep a roof over their head
Help people to find a settled home
Statutory homelessness duties
Create opportunities for vulnerable residents
Yours sincerely
Information Services
Customer Services & IMT
http://www.wokingham.gov.uk/
From: FoiUnit@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 9:46 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RFI16 3913
As you may be aware April 27th 2015 saw the introduction of significantly new Housing/Homelessness legislation. As this is still very new legislation solutions and systems continue to be identified to meet the challenges the legislation has created. The Act therefore has acknowledged this and has given LA's 2018 to produce a Prevention strategy that fully meets the demands and pressures of the local authorities residents and service provision and legal functions.
Please see below extract from the Welsh Code of Guidance
Section 50 - Duty to carry out a homelessness review and formulate a homelessness strategy
(1) A local housing authority must (periodically, as required by this section)—
(a) carry out a homelessness review for its area, and
(b) formulate and adopt a homelessness strategy based on the results of that review.
(2) The authority must adopt a homelessness strategy in 2018 and a new homelessness strategy in every fourth year after 2018.
(3) The Welsh Ministers may amend subsection (2) by order.
(4) A council of a county or county borough in Wales must take its homelessness strategy into account in the exercise of its functions (including functions other than its functions as local housing authority).
(5) Nothing in subsection (4) affects any duty or requirement arising apart from this section.
Kind regards,
Information Governance Officer
Vale of Glamorgan Council
http://www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk
From: Daniel.Toms@southwark.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2016 7:53 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Response - 613524
Dear Mr Mortimer
A review of homelessness commenced in late 2014. The scope of the review encompassed those services directly provided by or commissioned through Southwark Council and captured:
The level of homelessness in the borough
Activities that are carried out which prevent homelessness, secure accommodation for homeless people, and provide support to people who are or may become homeless
The resources available to carry out these activities.
The review of homelessness report can be found on the Council’s website:
http://www.southwark.gov.uk/downloads/download/4297/review_of_homelessness_in_southwark_2014
Yours sincerely,
Daniel Toms
Investigations Officer
Southwark Council
http://www.southwark.gov.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: Julie.Render@slough.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 22, 2016 6:01 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Penny.West@slough.gov.uk
Subject: RE: FOI - 8615
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Slough Borough Council, Housing Strategy and Homeless Strategy are under review.
We are currently undertaking a mapping and reviewing approach for Slough Borough Council, housing related support services, which includes homeless provision for single people and external funded advice services.
Slough Borough Council underwent a peer review of the Council's statutory services (Housing Advice and Homeless functions) from an external party in the July 2015, we now have an action plan of improvements needed to enhance this service and work on the action plan has begun.
We make best use of the 'prevention' funding' by paying rent in advance for clients who are at risk of homelessness (single/couples and families), this is helpful to clients who are on benefits/low incomes.
None of the work carried out so far has indicated any excluded groups, Slough has a very diverse community and we do our best to reach all people within the borough. We are part of the Berkshire project which has engaged a Community Project worker, since January 2015, to link different communities and small groups together to provide more cohesive services and better understanding between communities and faith based groups.
I hope the above information is useful, please advise if you have any further queries
Regards
Julie Render
Slough Borough Council
https://www.slough.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: DarrenEdwards@cannockchasedc.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 22, 2016 5:13 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FW: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear Mr Mortimer
Our last Homelessness Strategy was produced in 2011, it covers up to the end of 2016 and is monitored annually. Available at http://www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/residents/housing/strategic-housing/housing-strategy under Other Key documents.
A Homelessness Review is required for the formulation of the Homelessness Strategy, this is the mapping exercise for services and details all the groups that are covered. The Homelessness Review is also available at http://www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/residents/housing/strategic-housing/housing-strategy under Other Key documents.
Yours sincerely,
Darren Edwards
Cannock Chase Council
https://www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: foi@hart.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 22, 2016 2:59 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: FOI - 2016 - 1968 - Mortimer - Homelessness
Hello David
Hart’s published its
fourth Preventing Homelessness Strategy at the end of 2014. It represents
the Council’s on-going commitment to preventing and tackling homelessness
effectively. This strategy presents a delivery plan that has been developed
in partnership, through extensive consultation, and following a comprehensive
review of homelessness in the district which can be found here
https://www.hart.gov.uk/sites/default/files/4_The_Council/Policies_and_published_documents/
Corporate_policies/Review%20of%20Homelessness%20%26%20Housing%20Strategy.pdf
We published an annual review of this Strategy in January 2016 and this can be found here
http://www.hart.gov.uk/sites/default/files/4_The_Council/Policies_and_published_documents/Corporate
_policies/Preventing%20Homelessness%20Strategy%20annual%20update%20FINAL%20(1).pdf
Regards
Barbara Williams
Hart District Council
http://www.hart.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Ric.Brackenbury@stroke.org.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 22, 2016 1:28 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Subject: Re: The terms of reference for the Milton Keynes homelessness
strategy don’t deal with all the causes.
David,
Good questions but far too early to know the answers yet. The organisation is only an idea at the moment, and it will be some time before we see what will emerge and how effective in practice.
If it's a truly independent organisation, I doubt it would be subject to FOI as that refers to public bodies -but I would hope they could assist with less formal enquiries.
Best wishes
Ric Brackenbury
https://www.stroke.org.uk
From: ACSfreedomofinformation@bromley.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 22, 2016 1:11 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 11242 MORTIMER - FOI Request: Homelessness reply
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Homelessness Strategy 2012-17 is currently being reviewed as we are nearing end of five year period, a link is attached below. It would have been last reviewed 2011-12.
http://www.bromley.gov.uk/downloads/download/303/homelessness_strategy
We trust this completes your FOI enquiry as far as we are able.
Thank you for your request.
Regards
FOI Co-ordinator
London Borough of Bromley
https://www.bromley.gov.uk
From: foi@lewes.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 22, 2016 12:31 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Your Freedom of Information request - Our ref FOI/697
Dear Mr Mortimer
The strategy was last reviewed in 2008. We are currently under taking
a full and thorough review of the strategy.
The development of the strategy considered the
impact on a variety of groups and contains an objective to improve support
to vulnerable people, referring to victims of domestic violence, substance
misuse and ex-offenders. The review showed that there were no ethnic
groups excluded in the delivery of the homelessness service.
Yours faithfully,
Tracey Wallace
Lewes District Council
http://www.lewes.gov.uk/
From: housingperformance@stirling.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 22, 2016 12:21 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: FOI@stirling.gov.uk
Subject: FOI 8377 Homelessness prevention strategy
Dear David Mortimer
We can confirm that the homelessness strategy was last reviewed in 2012 as part of Stirling’s Local Housing Strategy (LHS). The next review will be completed by June 2018. The LHS maps where housing demand is and how any gaps in provision can be met. In developing our approaches to homelessness, we look at where the needs are and whether they match our resources.
Stirling Council’s approach to housing options and homelessness prevention seeks to ensure that we are as inclusive as possible. The homelessness service is a statutory provision and provided individuals are eligible for that service, no person is excluded.
Stirling Council
http://my.stirling.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Hilary.Parkey@highland.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 22, 2016 9:16 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Lawrence.Jones@highland.gov.uk
Subject: RE: FOI 1387964 - Preventing homelessness
Dear Mr Mortimer
Our Strategy was reviewed in 2015. We also carried out an exercise last year to assess housing support needs and identify gaps. This is informing our commissioning and development of services. This was partly in response to recent legislation.
We track and monitor information on an ongoing basis in order to help us understand on-going needs and identify any new gaps or issues. This information is also reported to the Council's Committees. These reports are available on the Highland Council's website.
We are currently looking in detail at the needs of homeless households in temporary accommodation with a particular focus on households with multiple and complex needs. Research shows that they are most at risk of exclusion. This is in order to improve services and service responses.
Regards Hilary
Hilary Parkey
The Highland Council
https://highland.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: foi@dundeecity.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 22, 2016 8:32 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: denise.campbell@dundeecity.gov.uk
Subject: Response to Customer 20160314006
The Local Housing Strategy
2012-17 (Committee Report 401-2012) available on the Council's website,
contains the pertinent information for Homelessness.
http://www.dundeecity.gov.uk/minutes/fulltext?meeting_ref=4988
From: FOI@pkc.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 22, 2016 8:04 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FREEDOM OF INFORMATION REQUEST - OUR REF ATI 2016 03 15 001
Dear Mr Mortimer
Our combined Neighbourhood and Homeless strategy is currently being reviewed and has been included within our local housing strategy. This is currently our for consultation in readiness for Committee approval in May 2016.
Our current strategy and our revised local housing strategy did not identify any groups excluded from the community. However, our combined Neighbourhood and Homeless strategy does make reference to hidden homelessness.
Yours sincerely
Claire Wardlaw
Perth and Kinross Council
http://www.pkc.gov.uk/
From: Kim.Mylchreest@southglos.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 4:18 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: cahfeedback@southglos.gov.uk
Subject: FOI enquiry
Dear Mr Mortimer
A link to the Councils full report on the latest homelessness review and strategy can be found here.
http://www.southglos.gov.uk/documents/Homelessness-Review-and-Strategy-2014.pdf
Best Regards
Kim Mylchreest
South Gloucestershire Council
http://www.southglos.gov.uk/
From: CHS_COMEQ@Enfield.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 3:34 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: HHASC-FOI@enfield.gov.uk;
complaintsandinformation@enfield.gov.uk
Subject: FRCSFOI 22203/15
Dear Mr Mortimer,
I can inform you that the last review of Enfield's Homelessness Strategy document was carried out by the Housing Team in between January 2013 and June 2013 and I attach the weblink to the document that resulted.
Yours Sincerely
Shaun Rogan
Enfield Council
https://new.enfield.gov.uk/
From: foi.officer@stockport.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 2:35 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 41948 - Response
Dear Mr Mortimer,
The new Stockport Preventing Homelessness Strategy and will be published in July 2016
A mapping/gapping exercise was undertaken in October-December 2015 as part of the statutory requirement to undertake a Review of homelessness in the borough at least every five years. This has informed the development of the new Preventing Homelessness Strategy.
The exercise was undertaken in consultation with partner agencies, particularly the Stockport Homelessness Forum Groups which were identified as particularly affected (through an identified increase in homelessness) by the Review included:
Care leavers
People with mental health issues
Rough sleepers
Groups forecasted to be affected within the lifetime of the new Strategy by the mapping/gapping exercise included:
Offenders, due to changes in national commissioning affecting local services
Families, due to welfare reforms such as the benefit cap
Under 35s, due to welfare reforms such as the application of Local Housing Allowance to the social rented sector
Yours sincerely,
Laura Walsh
Stockport MBC
http://www.stockport.gov.uk/
From: FOI@highpeak.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 2:12 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI-HP091/16
Dear Mr Mortimer
The local authority is aware of research (including Herriot-Watt, Crisis, Shelter, Homeless Link etc) which establishes the cost effectiveness of homelessness prevention in terms of reducing the cost to the public sector and improving wider health and social outcomes for homeless people. Work to address and prevent homelessness is undertaken with a variety of organisations and homelessness prevention initiatives are outlined within the Homelessness Strategy available at http://www.highpeak.gov.uk/sites/default/files/documents/pages/HOMELESSNESS%20STRATEGY%202012-16.pdf
Yours sincerely
Freedom of Information Team
High Peak Borough Council
http://www.highpeak.gov.uk/
From: FreedomOfInformati@staffsmoorlands.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 2:04 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI-SM0088/16
Dear Mr Mortimer
The local authority is aware of research (including Herriot-Watt, Crisis, Shelter, Homeless Link etc) which establishes the cost effectiveness of homelessness prevention in terms of reducing the cost to the public sector and improving wider health and social outcomes for homeless people. Work to address and prevent homelessness is undertaken with a variety of organisations and homelessness prevention initiatives are outlined within the Homelessness Strategy available at
http://www.staffsmoorlands.gov.uk/sm/council-services/policies-and-strategies/housing-strategies
Yours sincerely
Freedom of Information Team
Staffordshire Moorlands District Council
http://www.staffsmoorlands.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: rdunmall@chichester.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 1:44 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Contact@chichester.gov.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act. FL-101002841873
Dear Mr Mortimer
The information you have requested is in the public domain and can be found on the Council's website at
http://www.chichester.gov.uk/article/24758/Housing-strategies-and-studies
Regards
Rob Dunmall
Chichester District Council
http://www.chichester.gov.uk
From: Lynn.Wilders@tmbc.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 1:43 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Satnam.Kaur@tmbc.gov.uk;
foi@tmbc.gov.uk; Helen.Racine@tmbc.gov.uk
Subject: RE: Housing FOI 16/102
Dear Mr Mortimer
I can confirm that Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council is aware of recent studies regarding the costs of accommodating homeless people in a clinical or custodial setting.
Please be assured that our housing options team is committed to working in partnership with local agencies in order to prevent homelessness and promote the benefits of early intervention.
Regards
Lynn Wilders
Housing Needs Manager
http://www.tmbc.gov.uk/
From: freedominfo@newcastle-staffs.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 1:26 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Request for Information. FOI Ref: 5534
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Homelessness Act 2002 requires us to carry out a homelessness review of our area and formulate and publish a strategy based upon its findings every five years.
During 2015 the Council’s Housing strategy team have undertaken a comprehensive review of the current homelessness situation in Newcastle under Lyme.
The review has identified the causes of homelessness, the needs of those faced with or experiencing homelessness and the services currently available to meet those needs. It has taken into consideration the views of our stakeholders and service users, which has enabled us to identify any issues and gaps in the current provision. Finally, it informs the reader of current Government policy.
The information from the Review, plus Government guidance has enabled us to develop a new Homelessness Strategy, which sets out the direction we want to take over the next five years in order to prevent and address homelessness. Our Homelessness Strategy is scheduled to presented to Cabinet in May for final approval.
Kind Regards
Caroline Horne
Newcastle - Under Lyme Borough Council
http://www.newcastle-staffs.gov.uk
From: NPinder@cravendc.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 12:32 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: DWalker@cravendc.gov.uk;
DRoper-Newman@cravendc.gov.uk
Subject: 0316 HOMELESSNESS STRATEGY
This information is already publically available on our website and I would direct you to:
http://www.cravendc.gov.uk/housingstrategy
Nina Pinder
Housing Policy & Contracts Officer
http://www.cravendc.gov.uk
From: caroline.hallsworth@newcastle-staffs.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 12:28 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for Information. FOI Ref: 5534 - Deadline Date:
12th April 2016
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Homelessness Act 2002 requires us to carry out a homelessness review of our area and formulate and publish a strategy based upon its findings every five years.
During 2015 the Council’s Housing strategy team have undertaken a comprehensive review of the current homelessness situation in Newcastle under Lyme.
The review has identified the causes of homelessness, the needs of those faced with or experiencing homelessness and the services currently available to meet those needs. It has taken into consideration the views of our stakeholders and service users, which has enabled us to identify any issues and gaps in the current provision. Finally, it informs the reader of current Government policy.
The information from the Review, plus Government guidance has enabled us to develop a new Homelessness Strategy, which sets out the direction we want to take over the next five years in order to prevent and address homelessness. Our Homelessness Strategy is scheduled to presented to Cabinet in May for final approval.
Regards
Caroline Hallsworth
Newcastle under Lyme Borough Council
https://www.newcastle-staffs.gov.uk/
From: FOI@Lincolnshire.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 11:54 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: 31276341FOI: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear David Mortimer
The Lincolnshire Homelessness Strategy to tackle & prevent homelessness is presently being reviewed. Prior to this the last time it was fully reviewed was in November 2011 to form the 2012-2016 Lincolnshire Homelessness Strategy and part of this process included a mapping and gapping exercise. As a result of this there were no groups that were found to be excluded in the community.
Yours sincerely
Emma Wells
Lincolnshire County Council
http://www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/
From: FOI@sevenoaks.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 11:37 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 200-2016
Dear David Mortimer
The Council has a joint Homeless strategy with Tonbridge and Malling and Tunbridge Wells Borough Councils and this is currently being refreshed. There is also a Homeless strategy working group which meets a couple of times a year with representatives from the 3 Councils and all relevant Agencies such as CAB and YMCA and all objectives are monitored and good practice shared.
This time the Homeless strategy will include key objectives from the 3 Local Authorities outlined in their main Housing Strategy. This Council is undertaking a Housing needs survey and stock condition survey which will identify the needs of different households and will inform the Housing and Homeless strategy. The work should continue until the end of the year when the final documents will be complete and referred to Members for approval.
Yours sincerely
Jo Middleton
Sevenoaks District Council
http://www.sevenoaks.gov.uk
From: Paul.Charlson@westlancs.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 11:25 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: West Lancashire Borough Council: Freedom of Information Act
2000 - Request for information FOI: 2016/148
Dear David Mortimer
The current Homelessness Strategy 2007 – 2012 is being reviewed this year with a new strategy being produced in 2017.
Yours sincerely
Paul Charlson BSc (Hons)
MBA CMCIEH MCMI
West Lancashire Borough Council
http://www.westlancs.gov.uk
From: David.Whittaker@lichfielddc.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 11:16 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: foi@lichfielddc.gov.uk
Subject: Re: 531 Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear Mr Mortimer
Our latest homelessness strategy was produced in April 2013 and included a review of homelessness in the district. Gaps in provision were identified through this review and consultation with our partners and are set out in the strategy document. The strategy can be found at:
https://www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/Residents/Housing/Homelessness/Homelessness-review-and-strategy.aspx
Regards
David Whittaker
Lichfield District Council
https://www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: L.Anderson@poole.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 10:14 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Ref 812 - Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear Mr Mortimer
Our Housing Strategy delivery plan was last updated for homelessness actions in March 2015.
No mapping / gapping exercise was carried out at that time to assess excluded groups.
Yours sincerely,
Lynda Anderson
Borough of Poole
http://www.poole.gov.uk/
From: Jane.Reed@Milton-keynes.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2016 8:47 AM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk;
nigellong59@gmail.com
Subject: RE: The terms of reference for the Milton Keynes homelessness
strategy don’t deal with all the causes.
What you have attached is not a new Homelessness Strategy it is a report by a Task and Finish Group established by the Council’s Scrutiny Management Committee to consider a particular local issue, in this case homelessness.
The Group has no decision making powers, but reports its findings / recommendations to Cabinet for their consideration.
Cabinet considered this report last Monday 14 March and made the following decisions:
1. That a feasibility study investigating the suggestions brought forward by the Homelessness Task and Finish Group be brought to the next meeting of the Cabinet
2. That the issues for future planning decisions to examine the types of housing developments, be considered by the Planning Cabinet Advisory Group
3. That the recommendations from the Homelessness Task and Finish Group be noted
I hope this clarifies things for you.
Jane Reed
Director of Housing and Community
Milton Keynes Council
https://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Cfranklin@torfaen.gov.uk
Sent: Sunday, March 20, 2016 8:06 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Response to freedom of information act.
Dear Mr Mortimer
Torfaen County Borough Council (TCBC) does not have a specific Homelessness Strategy, although we do have a Local Housing Strategy that runs from 2012 to 2017. Following on from the Housing (Wales) Act 2014, Welsh local authorities are required to develop Homelessness Strategies by April 2018 and TCBC are planning to meet this requirement.
Yours sincerely
Catherine Franklin
Torfaen County Borough Council
https://www.torfaen.gov.uk
From: ZoeCallaway@swale.gov.uk
Sent: Saturday, March 19, 2016 7:23 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Request for information under the freedom of information act
- FOI NO: 148
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Homelessness Strategy review consultation period started in autumn 2013 and the final strategy was published in October 2014.
Yours sincerely
Zoe Callaway
Housing Strategy and Enabling Officer
http://www.swale.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: ldobson@uttlesford.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 4:05 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Homelessness Strategy was reviewed during 2015 with partnering agencies and completely re-written and adopted in January 2016. No groups were identified that were excluded.
Yours sincerely
Linda Dobson
PA to Directors
http://www.uttlesford.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: tracey.griffiths@fdean.gcsx.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 4:02 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear David,
Further to your request, the Homelessness Strategy was last reviewed in 2015 . A "mapping and gaping " exercise was not carried out but an Equality Impact Appraisal was carried out which did not raise any significant issues regarding groups excluded in FoDD community
Kind Regards
Tracey Griffiths
Forest of Dean District Council
http://www.fdean.gov.uk/
From: DoNotReply@nuneatonandbedworth.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 3:46 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: NBBC FOI Request: NBFOI796841
Dear Mr Mortimer,
The NBBC Homelessness Strategy ran from 2009 to 2012. Since then the requirement for Local Authorities to have a bespoke’ Homelessness Strategy’ is no longer a statutory.
NBBC is due to review and refresh its Housing Strategy this year and homelessness will be included in this document/strategy.
In terms of reviews of Homelessness generally in the Borough this goes on as part of our internal monitoring processes and I am confident to say that we have no ‘groups’ or classifications of individuals that are excluded from receiving advice and/or assistance in relation to homelessness.
Yours sincerely,
Freedom of Information Co-ordinator
Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council
https://www.nuneatonandbedworth.gov.uk/
From: foi@southbucks.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 3:21 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Standard Response Template
Please refer to the published information on the website
http://www.southbucks.gov.uk/housingstrategyconsultation
Yours faithfully
South Bucks District Council
http://www.southbucks.gov.uk/
From: foi@Fareham.Gov.UK
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 3:08 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Request
Dear Mr Mortimer
Fareham Borough Councils homelessness strategy was last reviewed in 2013 followed by a period of public consultation. A full equality impact assessment was undertaken resulting in the publication of our current homelessness strategy (2014-17) which can been found on our website at the following link:
http://www.fareham.gov.uk/PDF/housing/homeless14-17.pdf
Yours sincerely
Samantha Wightman
Fareham Borough Council
http://www.fareham.gov.uk/
From:foi@stoke.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 2:50 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Your request for information ref. SOT49933 about the city council's
homelessness strategy.
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Homelessness Strategy has been reviewed and the final draft review completed in February 2016. It is currently out for consultation.
This included a strategic review which considered national and local context, statistical profiling, trends and housing needs. No specific groups were excluded.
Yours sincerely
Information Rights Team
City of Stoke-on-Trent
http://www.stoke.gov.uk/
From: PhillipWalker@Gateshead.Gov.UK
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 2:33 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Request
Gateshead reviewed it's Preventing Homelessness Strategy in 2013 and the current Strategy is from 2013 to 2018. The Strategy is due for an annual review.
A mapping and Gapping exercise was not undertaken. However the following groups and organisations were consulted in 2013.
Housing Portfolio
Members of the Council
Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG).
The Gateshead Housing Company.
The disability forum.
Gateshead Access Panel
Talisman.
The Vulnerable Persons Housing Group.
Shelter.
Citizens Advice Bureaux (CAB).
Staff within Housing Services and other Council departments.
Northumbria Police.
Registered Social Landlords.
Gateshead Private Landlords Association.
Changing Lives
Aquilla Way.
Norcare.
Public consultation including former service users.
Yours faithfully
Phil Walker
Gateshead Council
http://www.gateshead.gov.uk/
From: foi@chorley.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 2:21 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI Request FOI/16/106 - Response
Dear Mr Mortimer
Requested:
Please will you kindly tell me if you are aware of the recent studies which have been done which show it cost 3 times more to jail homeless people than it does to provide them with housing & 5 times more if they are put in a hospitalised environment?
Yes, we are aware of such recent studies.
Yours sincerely
Ally Lloyd
Chorley Council
http://main.chorley.gov.uk/
From: FreedomofInformation@crawley.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 2:09 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Crawley Borough Council Response to Freedom of Information
Request: 4198
The current Homelessness Strategy runs from 2014-2019 and is updated annually. The Review and Strategy are both public documents and can both be found on the Council’s Website as follows : http://www.crawley.gov.uk/pw/Search/index.htm?strCSS=&isPostBack=1&OriginalText=
Enter+Search+Text&ftx=1&siteId=25&SearchText=Homelessness+Review&x=0&y=0
Kind regards,
Freedom of Information Section
http://www.crawley.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: CAsti@rushcliffe.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 2:04 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Matter 13193 - FOI Request - Homelessness Strategy
Dear Mr Mortimer,
In 2012, Rushcliffe Borough Council worked with Broxtowe and Gedling Borough Councils to carry out a full review of homelessness in the South Nottinghamshire area. This included widespread consultation with local service providers and the voluntary sector. We then based our joint homelessness strategy on the findings of this review to publish the review and strategy in 2013. We have brought together a South Nottinghamshire Interagency Homelessness Forum to manage the strategy and make sure its action plan is put into practice. The Review and Strategy are available on the Rushcliffe Borough Council website at:
http://www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/media/rushcliffe/media/documents/pdf/hou
sing/South%20Notts%20Joint%20Homelessness%20Strategy%202013.pdf
We continue to work with partners to progress the action plan and to identify gaps in provision. As such, work is currently being undertaken to review and refresh the action plan and additional work is currently being undertaken on a County-Wide basis to review homelessness services and (on a South Nottinghamshire level) to update the homelessness review ahead of a refresh of the homelessness strategy. Additionally, we work with partners to undertake snapshot surveys relating to homelessness, such as Homelessness Watch:
http://www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/media/rushcliffe/media/documents/pdf/housing/HLG_finalHWreport2015.pdf
Overall, the work being undertaken enables Rushcliffe Borough Council and our partners to have a good understanding of homelessness issues and the measures required to prevent and tackle homelessness in the borough.
Kind Regards
P.J.Cox
Senior Solicitor
http://www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/
From: Jill.Elwell@dudley.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 2:00 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: dudleyfoi@messagestore.co.uk
Subject: Strategy for Tackling and Preventing Homelessness DMBCIR:12850
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Our strategy is updated annually. Please follow the attached link for further information.
http://www.dudley.gov.uk/resident/housing/plans-policies-strategies/
Yours sincerely,
Freedom of Information Office
http://www.dudley.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: foi@great-yarmouth.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 1:44 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: Request for information under the freedom of information
act. FOI2016-139
Dear David
We are currently reviewing the homelessness strategy as part of the Housing Strategy. The previous version did involve use of a workshop to identify gaps in provision but did not identify any specific groups excluded in the community.
Yours sincerely
Geoff Jones
Great Yarmouth Borough Council
http://www.great-yarmouth.gov.uk
From: foi@westberks.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 1:21 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: FoI/2016/263- Mortimer
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Request for information: Tackling & preventing homelessness
The information to respond to your request can be found on the Council’s website here;
http://info.westberks.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=28840
Yours sincerely,
Suzi Kenchington
West Berkshire Council
http://www.westberks.gov.uk/
From: Freedom.OfInformationGroup@huntingdonshire.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 12:25 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 4900 Response
Dear David Mortimer,
The Council last completed a homelessness review and updated its homelessness strategy in June 2011. It did not find any groups that were excluded within our communities. The strategy is available here
http://www.huntingdonshire.gov.uk/media/1338/homelessness-strategy.pdf
Yours sincerely
FOI Support Officer
Huntingdonshire District Council
http://www.huntingdonshire.gov.uk/
rom: harrow@icaseworkmail.com
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 12:10 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Information request (ref: 2486095)
Dear Mr. Mortimer
Harrow Council’s Homelessness Strategy 2013-2018 was produced in 2013. A full Equality Impact Assessment was completed at the time. The documents can be found here
http://www.harrow.gov.uk/info/200003/housing_policies_and_planning_for_housing/184/housing_changes/2
The homelessness strategy, along with all our housing strategies, will be reviewed in view of the upcoming new housing and welfare legislation and the increasing pressures on affordable housing locally.
Kind regards
Jatin Dusara
Housing Information Officer
http://www.harrow.gov.uk/
From: Information.Management@e-lindsey.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 12:08 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI-1516-03-517
The current strategy (2012 to 2016) is on our website at
http://www.e-lindsey.gov.uk/article/1994/Homelessness
This includes details of the review (November 2011) which was undertaken and priorities formed as a result of the review and consultation.
A new strategy is currently being written and will be available later this year. This will include the current review which is being undertaken.
Yours sincerely,
Information Management Team
East Lindsey District Council
http://www.e-lindsey.gov.uk/
From: Anna.Henchie-Jones@ceredigion.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 11:57 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Huw.Evans@ceredigion.gov.uk;
Sue.Thomas@ceredigion.gov.uk
Subject: Request for information under the freedom of information act.
Dear Mr Mortimer,
As part of the work to prepare a Local Housing Strategy, we reviewed the work being undertaken Corporately and in the wider community to prevent and tackle homelessness. As a result, homelessness prevention became one of the seven key challenges to be tackled in Ceredigion. The work was undertaken in 2013.
Following on from the review of services undertaken from the completion of the LHS, and in preparation for the implementation of the Housing (Wales) Act 2014, the Local Authority commissioned a gap analysis study of homelessness and support services in the County. It was used, alongside our usual stakeholder fora to ensure the services offered would meet the requirements of the new Act. The work was undertaken in late 2013 and delivered in spring 2014.
The Local Authority does not exclude any group within our community.
Yours sincerely
Anna Henchie-Jones
Housing Policy & Strategy Officer
https://www.ceredigion.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From:freedomofinformation@darlington.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 11:19 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear Mr Mortimer,
The requested information can be found at the following link which takes you to the strategy and Equality Impact Assessment.
http://www.darlington.gov.uk/media/960129/Preventing-Homelessness-Strategy.pdf
Regards,
Jenni Gamble
Darlington Borough Council
http://www.darlington.gov.uk/
From: rob.newman@gravesham.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 10:41 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: david.hughes@gravesham.gov.uk;
foi@gravesham.gov.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Request Reference IR2554 (Homelessness)
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Our Homelessness Strategy is currently under review, with a July 2016 deadline for delivery.
It is possible that as part of the consultation process, we may use a “mapping and gapping exercise” and we will be looking to identify which groups within our community may be excluded as part of the Equalities Impact Assessment that will be performed on the strategy.
Yours Sincerely,
Kevin Burbidge
Gravesham Borough Council
http://www.gravesham.gov.uk/
From: foirequest@wigan.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 10:37 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 8309
A full review of our previous homelessness strategy 2008 – 13 was carried out in 2013. The review included a gap analysis and mapping exercise to identify gaps in provision and to determine the strategic priorities for the new homelessness prevention strategy 2014 – 2018. We also carried out an impact assessment to ensure no groups were excluded.
Kind Regards,
Complaints and Information
Team
Wigan Council
http://www.wigan.gov.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: heather.jones@shropshire.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 10:19 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear Mr Mortimer
Thank you for your enquiry, details of the latest review of the homelessness strategy and the draft strategy can be found on the council website at the link below.
https://new.shropshire.gov.uk/get-involved/homelessness-strategy-2015-17/
Yours sincerely
Information Governance Team
Shropshire Council
https://new.shropshire.gov.uk/
From: I.Colyer@welhat.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 9:55 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information request - Homelessness
Dear Mr Mortimer,
I can confirm that Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council’s Homelessness Strategy was last reviewed in 2013, which produced the current Homeless & Housing strategy here:
http://www.welhat.gov.uk/housingstrategy
We did carry out a series of workshops at the Strategic Housing Meetings and Homeless prevention forums to consider gaps etc, and
there is also a regular multi agency forum that meets and picks up on trends/issues/gaps. No excluded groups were identified.
Yours sincerely
Ian Colyer
Freedom of Information Officer
Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council
http://www.welhat.gov.uk
From: BMBCIGDPAFOI@barnsley.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 9:20 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOIA11648 - Homelessness strategy
Good morning David,
The Current Homeless Strategy is under review in the light of welfare reform changes, budget reductions and changing needs and demographics in the borough. This review will undertake a mapping and gapping exercise and a full equalities impact assessment will be undertaken as part of this process. This will identify any excluded groups and actions to address this as part of the strategy implementation. The timescales for a new strategy being published is June/July 16.
Thank you
Cathryn Copley
Barnsley MBC
https://www.barnsley.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Jo.Wykes@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 18, 2016 9:13 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Jo.McLaren@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk;
Valerie.Bunting@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk
Subject: Re: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear David Mortimer
At Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council we always carry out an Equality Impact Assessment for our strategies to ensure all groups are included .
Yours sincerely
Jo Wykes
Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council
http://www.hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk/
From: foi@allerdale.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 5:03 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: F16/169 - FOI requests
Dear Mr Mortimer
Our Homelessness Strategy was last reviewed in June of 2015.
Whilst no specific ‘gapping and mapping’ was carried out as part of the review, the overall homelessness situation within the Borough and the services required to meet those needs, were noted. No groups were specifically identified as excluded within the Allerdale area.
Yours sincerely
Jo Doran
Allerdale Borough Council
http://www.allerdale.gov.uk
From: Sarah.Holmes@bradford.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 4:32 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: freedomofinfo@bradford.gov.uk;
Alison.Milner@bradford.gov.uk;
jane.lewis@bradford.gov.uk;
sue.butterfield@bradford.gov.uk;
yusuf.karolia@bradford.gov.uk
Subject: Final response - FOI inquiry Ref March54
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Council reviewed its strategy for tackling and preventing homelessness in 2013-14, and this was incorporated in ‘A Place to Call Home: Housing and Homelessness Strategy for Bradford District 2014 – 2019’, which was approved by the full Council in March 2014. The full strategy can be found at:-
A formal, structured ‘mapping and gapping ‘exercise was not carried out, but background evidence and research was undertaken, along with extensive consultation. The evidence base for the strategy can be found at:-
http://www.bradford.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/D6477AD2-076C-49B1-951F-898673
044CE1/0/EvidenceBase23Oct13HousingandHomelessnessStrategyAppendix1.pdf
Regards,
Sarah Holmes
City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council
http://www.bradford.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Martin.Durkin@erewash.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 3:44 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear David
The last review of homelessness was conducted during 2012 which provided information about the nature of homelessness and the services available in the borough. A mapping exercise was carried out with stakeholders at the Housing and Homeless Forum to help identify gaps.
This review helped to develop the 2013-18 strategy currently in place.
Yours sincerely
Martin Durkin
Erewash Borough Council
http://www.erewash.gov.uk/
From: foi@middevon.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 2:42 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 04057 - Final Response
I can confirm the current Homeless strategy is from 2013-2018. Due for review in 2 years’ time. The original consultation involved all stakeholders and partners to gather information relating to the strategy.
Yours sincerely
Vicky Bowden
Mid Devon District Council
http://www.middevon.gov.uk
From: FOI@southlakeland.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 2:22 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: It costs less to house the homeless. F16095
Dear David,
Yes the council is aware of studies that reference the much higher costs of imprisoning or hospitalising people.
Yours sincerely,
Emma Nichols
South Lakeland District Council
http://www.southlakeland.gov.uk
From:John.Sheil@gedling.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 1:23 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Sarah.Klapkowski@gedling.gov.uk
Subject: FOI request dated 14th March 2016
Dear Mr Mortimer,
In 2012, we worked with Broxtowe and Rushcliffe borough councils to carry out a full review of homelessness in the South Nottinghamshire area. This included widespread consultation with local service providers and the voluntary sector. We then based our joint homelessness strategy on the findings of this review to publish the review and strategy in 2013. We have brought together a South Nottinghamshire Interagency Homelessness Forum to manage the strategy and make sure its action plan is put into practice. The Review and Strategy are available on the Gedling Borough Council website at:
We continue to work with partners to progress the action plan and to identify gaps in provision. As such, work is currently being undertaken to review and refresh the action plan and additional work is currently being undertaken on a County-Wide basis to review homelessness services and (on a South Nottinghamshire level) to update the homelessness review ahead of a refresh of the homelessness strategy. Additionally, we work with partners to undertake snapshot surveys relating to homelessness, such as Homelessness Watch:
http://www.gedling.gov.uk/media/documents/housing/HLG_finalHWreport2015.pdf
Kind regards
John Sheil
Gedling Borough Council
http://www.gedling.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Data.Protection@trafford.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 1:19 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: 3306 Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear Mr Mortimer
Stratefy last reviewed in April 2014
A mapping & gapping exercise was carried out through consultation and did identify gaps in services which went on to inform the development of the new the new Homelessness Strategy - the link for the new strategy is below
Yours sincerely,
Information Governance
Trafford Council
http://www.trafford.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: foi@stroud.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 12:05 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear David,
It was reviewed in April 2015. As the policy was only implemented in April 2014 there was no mapping exercise carried out last year. It is due to be reviewed after April this year.
Yours sincerely
Mrs L Rowlands
Stroud District Council
http://www.stroud.gov.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: FOI@boston.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 11:54 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Request 1163-15-16
Lincolnshire County Homelessness Strategy is currently under review.
Kind regards
Freedom of Information
Boston Borough Council
http://www.boston.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Request_Responses@tandridge.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 11:47 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI Response - 2016/foi/1214
Dear Mr Mortimer,
The current Tandridge District Council Preventing Homelessness Strategy 2013-2018 and associated documents can be viewed via the council’s website at:
http://www.tandridge.gov.uk/Housing/homelessness/preventinghomelessnessstrategy.htm
Yours sincerely
Jason Thomas
Senior Housing Strategy Officer
http://www.tandridge.gov.uk
From: Catherine.Butler@woking.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 11:23 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI
Dear David
The Council’s Homelessness Strategy is under continuous review. We have not identified any excluded groups.
Kind Regards
Catherine Butler
Housing Needs Manager
Woking Borough Council
http://www.woking.gov.uk
From: j.dudgeon@sstaffs.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 11:16 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Ref: 2016/140
Good Morning
Our practise around housing prevention is constantly reviewed. Homelessness prevention is a complex issue – and no two cases are the same. I can say that our staff receive regular training from organisations such as Shelter and the C.I.H. Like many authorities one of our main aims is to prevent homelessness.
Regards
Jill Dudgeon
Senior Housing Officer
South Staffordshire Council
http://www.sstaffs.gov.uk
From: directoratesupportspringfield@harrogate.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 11:05 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FREEDOM OF INFORMATION REQUEST - REF: 1516-639
Dear Mr Mortimer
The council’s Homelessness Strategy was reviewed in 2014. The review used a variety of different methods, including a mapping exercise of services available in comparison to demands on services and concluded that there were no groups in the community that were excluded. The council’s Homelessness Strategy identified six main priorities to address homelessness in the district and their headline actions, with a detailed action plan being agreed on an annual basis to deliver the main priorities, which can reflect current trends, maximise resources and respond to changes in national, sub-regional and local policy drivers.
Yours sincerely
Jane Walker
Harrogate Borough Council
http://www.harrogate.gov.uk
From: michelle.howard@west-lindsey.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 11:03 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: FOI@west-lindsey.gov.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Request 3301
Dear David Mortimer,
The previous homelessness review and current Lincolnshire Homelessness Strategy (2012 – 2016) can be viewed on the Council’s website. It is a joint strategy between the 7 district councils. A further review of homelessness in Lincolnshire is currently underway. The findings of this review will also be published on the website and will be available no later than September 2016.
Kind Regards,
Michelle Howard
West Lindsey District Council
http://www.west-lindsey.gov.uk/
From: Anne.Doyle@liverpool.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 10:40 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Karen.Kelleher@liverpool.gov.uk
Subject: Request for information under the freedom of information act
Dear David,
A comprehensive review of the nature and extent of homelessness within Liverpool was undertaken during 2014/15 in preparation for writing our homelessness strategy. This review is available to view on our website:
http://liverpool.gov.uk/council/strategies-plans-and-policies/housing/homelessness-strategy/
A number of priorities have been identified through this review which are forming the basis of our new strategy. These are to:
i. Adopt an early prevention and intervention approach directed particularly towards single people and childless couples
ii. Develop and encourage economic resilience, including through access to affordable settled housing
iii. Address the needs of people who are homeless and have complex needs
Much more detailed information about particular groups is included in the review document.
Anne Doyle
Liverpool City Council
http://liverpool.gov.uk/
From: FOI@stockton.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 10:03 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Information request - Ref: 1455/1516
Dear David Mortimer
The Council’s Homelessness Strategy is integral to our Housing Strategy. Our strategy was adopted following a review of current provision, demand for service and gap analysis.
Yours sincerely,
Rebecca Horsman
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council
http://www.stockton.gov.uk
From: Leigh.Hayler@Bournemouth.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 10:03 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Request for information under the freedom of information act
Dear Mr Mortimer
The current Homelessness Strategy forms part of the Bournemouth's wider Housing Strategy, covering the period 2013-2020. The development of this strategy involved consultation with a wide range of stakeholders, including a formal consultation period between October and December 2012. An Equality Impact Needs Assessment was also completed, to ensure the strategy does not discriminate or disadvantage people and that it also promotes equality. The Strategy is monitored via Bournemouth's multi-agency Homelessness Strategy Group.
The Homelessness Strategy is currently undergoing a wholesale review whilst a new Homelessness Strategy is being developed. This will include a further period of stakeholder consultation (including service user consultations), needs analysis and service mapping.
Yours sincerely
Leigh Hayler
Bournemouth Borough Council
http://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/
From: accesstoinformation@herefordshire.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 9:54 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI IAT-11369 LA PROV.doc response
A review of homelessness was undertaken during 2015, in accordance with the requirements of the Homelessness Act 2002 and a Homelessness Prevention Strategy, based on the findings of the review has been developed. The Homeless Review and the Homelessness Prevention Strategy was approved by Herefordshire Council Cabinet on 10th March 2016 and will shortly be available on the council’s website.
The process of undertaking the Homeless Review does involve a ‘mapping’ analysis through the requirement to establish the extent of homelessness in the county, assess likely future demand and identify what is currently being done, by whom, and what level of resources are available for preventative work.
The Homelessness Review provided an evidence base for the development of the Homeless Prevention Strategy objectives through an assessment of:
The national policy context.
The local context.
The housing market in Herefordshire.
The Review of homelessness includes:
A review of homelessness trends, current levels of homelessness and likely future levels.
A review of activities that contribute towards homeless prevention.
A review of the activities that contribute towards securing accommodation.
A review of the activities that contribute towards providing support.
The Homelessness Review provided an evidence base for the development of the Homelessness Prevention Strategy objectives, which includes ‘gaps’ in current service delivery.
Whilst the Review did not specifically identify any groups who were excluded it is recognised that, although homelessness can happen to anyone, some people are likely to face greater difficulty in accessing and maintaining a home. These include rough sleepers, young people, people with substance dependences or mental health issues, people with challenging behaviours and those who are socially marginalised. For these reasons the strategic objectives include preventing homelessness and finding solution for those who often face the greatest barriers.
Kind Regards
Christine Dallow
Herefordshire Council
https://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/
From: andy.booker@Chesterfield.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 9:23 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 2320.doc
Chesterfield Borough Council’s current strategy statement for preventing homelessness was most recently reviewed in 2015, pending the completion of a joint North Derbyshire Strategy which is due to be launched in late spring, early summer 2016. As part of the compilation of this strategy a mapping and gapping exercise has been carried out.
This joint strategy also covers the districts of Bolsover and North East Derbyshire and will set out plans to tackle and prevent homelessness in the respective districts, and where appropriate, on a partnership basis across North Derbyshire.
As part of the mapping and gapping exercise carried out, no particular groups in Chesterfield were identified as excluded.
Regards
Freedom of Information Officer
Chesterfield Borough Council
http://www.chesterfield.gov.uk/
From: FOI-N&C@warrington.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 17, 2016 9:12 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI/N&C/0560 Mortimer - homelessness tackling and preventing
strategy & mapping
Dear Mr Mortimer
Between October 2013 and March 2014 the Warrington Homelessness Commission carried out a review of homelessness with the aim of objectively leading a public debate on homelessness in Warrington. This led to an analysis of the issues and informed Warrington’s Prevention of Homelessness Strategy 2014 to 2018.
Kind Regards
Warrington Borough Council
https://www.warrington.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Jane.Lang@Tunbridgewells.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 5:09 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FW: FOI F04706
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Tunbridge Wells Borough Council's Homelessness Strategy is being reviewed at the moment, as we are due to rewrite it later this year. We will continue to have a joint Strategy with the other two West Kent local authorities - Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council and Sevenoaks District Council.
As part of the rewrite, we will be looking at all groups of people affected by homelessness and in housing need and will be identifying those who may struggle to access our services, as part of that exercise.
We have strong links with voluntary agencies who work in our area to provide support to those who may feel excluded from the wider community, such as rough sleepers or refugees.
Yours sincerely,
Jane Lang
Tunbridge Wells Borough Council
http://www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Renata.Mosz@stratford-dc.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 4:03 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Request for information under the freedom of information act.
Homelessness and Stratford-on-Avon District Council
Dear Mr Mortimer
Stratford-on-Avon District Council's Housing Strategy 2015 to 2020 incorporates its Homelessness Strategy and Review (and also its Private Sector Housing Strategy). The Strategy was last reviewed and updated at the end of last year - it was considered by The Cabinet on 30 November 2015 and adopted by full Council on 14 December 2015.
Go to
https://www.stratford.gov.uk/council/housing-strategy.cfm
for more information and all the Strategy documents.
The Strategy Evidence Log which includes consultation and a review of homelessness, identifies young people aged 16 to 25 years old and single homeless people of all ages as the two groups of vulnerable people in Stratford-on-Avon District with the most urgent unmet support and accommodation needs. There is also a need for additional specialised housing (and support) for many other client groups and for good quality housing advice and support - see the Housing Strategy " Action Plan - November 2015" or follow the link below:
https://www.stratford.gov.uk/files/seealsodocs/171574/Housing%20Strate
gy%202015-2020%20ACTION%20PLAN%20-%20Nov%202015.pdf
Regards
Renata Mosz
Stratford-on-Avon District Council
https://www.stratford.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: michael.petter@eaststaffsbc.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 3:51 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act (Our Ref 4191)
Dear Mr Mortimer,
I attach the following documents:
Homelessness Review Document 2013
http://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/live/Documents/Forward%20Planning/Examination%20Library%2020
13/E12--STAFFORD-BOROUGH-COUNCIL-HOMELESS-REVIEW-2010.pdf
Homelessness Strategy for East Staffordshire 2013
http://www.eaststaffsbc.gov.uk/sites/default/files/docs/housing/standards/HousingStrategy.pdf
Together the above documents give the date of the last review.
Housing Strategy 2015-20
http://www.eaststaffsbc.gov.uk/sites/default/files/docs/housing/standards/HousingStrategy.pdf
which contains any further information that may be required.
Kind regards,
Mike Petter
East Staffordshire Borough Council
http://www.eaststaffsbc.gov.uk
From: Diane.McMillan@argyll-bute.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 3:50 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: Request for information under the freedom of information
act. [OFFICIAL]
Dear Mr Mortimer
We don’t have a separate strategy for preventing homelessness. Our approach to homelessness is incorporated in the Local Housing Strategy which is subject to a full equality impact assessment. The current strategy covered the period 2011-16 and a new strategy, which will cover the period 2016-2021 is currently out to consultation and that consultation ends on 31 March. Once the final document is drafted taking account of the consultation responses an EQIA will be carried out to ensure that the impact on all protected groups is taken into account.
Diane McMillan
Argyll Council
http://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk
From: freedomofinformation@daventrydc.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 3:33 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI4017
Dear Mr Mortimer,
The Homelessness Strategy is now incorporated into the Strategic Housing Plan which was adopted in February 2014. The only gaps that were identified was housing for single people but no members of the community were excluded under the policy.
Please see the Council's Strategic Housing Plan (2014-2019) online:
https://www.daventrydc.gov.uk/living/housing-strategy/?Housing%20Strategy
Jacob Hancox
Daventry District Council
https://www.daventrydc.gov.uk/
From: SRavenscroft@southribble.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 3:28 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information request
Dear Mr Mortimer
In response to your recent request I can advise that the Councils homeless strategy is currently under review
Regards
Suzanne Ravenscroft
South Ribble Borough Council
https://www.southribble.gov.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: Sharon.Mayes@eastdunbarton.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 2:45 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Suky.Singh@eastdunbarton.gov.uk;
foi@eastdunbarton.gov.uk
Subject: Re: FOI/06964 - Strategy for Tackling & Preventing Homelessness
Dear Mr Mortimer
I can advise that our Homelessness and Prevention Strategy is included within our Local Housing Strategy which is available on our website to down load. I can advise that this is currently being developed and updated and the new 2016 strategy will be published later in the year. I can advise that a consultation event is being held in April in order for us to start considering the new Local Housing Strategy.
Also our temporary accommodation strategy is currently underway and is due to be published for the Summer of 2016. A Housing Consultancy agency is involved in this and is currently carrying out analysis of stock, suitability of temporary accommodation, needs and demand.
The Housing Options Guidance was published earlier in the month by the Scottish Government and COSLA, due to this the changes included we are currently developing our own Housing Options procedure note which will form part of our prevention strategy.
Regards
Sharon Mayes
East Dunbartonshire Council
https://www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/
From: foi@telford.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 1:36 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Response
Dear Mr Mortimer
The council has a Homelessness and Prevention Strategy 2013 to 2017 in place. This strategy is constantly reviewed by the Homelessness Partnership made up by partners from the Statutory and non-Statutory providers to ensure we are capturing all vulnerable groups with a clear focus on prevention. We have now started a mapping & gapping exercise in preparation for our next strategy in 2017.
Kind Regards
Information Governance
Telford & Wrekin Council
http://www.telford.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Alison.Morton@hambleton.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 12:53 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Sue.Walters-Thompson@hambleton.gov.uk;
Melanie.Podd@hambleton.gov.uk;
Sandra.Hall@hambleton.gov.uk
Subject: Re: Request for information under the freedom of information
act. HDC157
To David.
I can confirm that full consultation was done for tackling and preventing homelessness and we have a Homelessness strategy and action plan for 2015-2020 that was agreed by the Hambleton District Council cabinet and was adopted in June 2015. A copy of our Homelessness Strategy are attached to this email and this can also be located on our website.
I can also confirm that all our partners were consulted for this and there was no specific groups that were excluded from this consultation.
A review of this document will take place around June of this year and will be reviewed yearly for the next five years through our Homeless Forum for Hambleton District Council where all partners, invited to the consultation ( above), are invited to attend.
Many thanks
Alison Morton
Hambleton Council
http://www.hambleton.gov.uk
From: Niamh.Turner@dacorum.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 12:17 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: jules.stevens@dacorum.gov.uk;
foi@dacorum.gov.uk
Subject: DBC/FOI4460
Dear Mr Mortimer,
The Homelessness Strategy outlines how we are working with our partners to achieve part of the overall shared vision for the Housing Service. This strategy is reviewed annually and was updated in 2015, and there will be a consultation process in the first half of 2016 as part of the annual review. The Strategy and the Equality and Impact Assessment were carried out in 2013.
Regards,
Niamh Turner
Dacorum Borough Council
http://www.dacorum.gov.uk/
From: IR@chelmsford.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 12:08 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Response to IR4458
Dear David,
Our Homelessness review and
Strategy was last updated in October 2013 and a link to it can
be found here
A ' mapping and gapping ' analysis was not conducted at the time. However when we conducted an Equality Impact Assessment in 2011 there were no groups who were identified as excluded from the policy see Appendix 4 , page 51 of this link
Yours sincerely,
Michael Read
Chelmsford City Council
http://www.chelmsford.gov.uk/
From: jjennison@selby.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 11:46 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 3292 - Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Further to your request for information regarding our Homelessness Strategy I can confirm that this was approved on 1st October 2015. A copy is available on our website at http://www.selby.gov.uk/sites/default/files/Documents/FINAL_HOMELESSNESS_STRATEGY_2015-2020_0.pdf
A gap analysis was completed during the summer of 2015 as part of the strategy review and is attached at Appendix A, page 60. No groups were identified as being excluded.
Kind regards
Julia Jennison
Selby District Council
http://www.selby.gov.uk/
From: FOI@corby.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 11:42 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Letter to applicant with releaseable information 108869
Dear Sir
The review has not yet been completed, but it will conform with requirements specified in Part 7 of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended in 2002 for Homelessness in relation to homelessness) but it will not exclude any group or person that is considered to be statutory homeless and in a priority need, of which definitions can be found in Part 7 of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended in 2002 for Homelessness).
Kind Regards
FOI Assistant
Corby Borough Council
http://www.corby.gov.uk/
From: foi@rother.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 11:41 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Request 3537
Dear Mr Mortimer
With reference to your request received on 15 March 2016 about homlessness strategy, the Council conducted Housing and Homelessness reviews during 2013. A key finding was that homelessness was increasing amongst single people, households with dependent children and lone parents. The review did not find that any groups were excluded.
The reviews fed into a revised Housing and Homelessness Strategy which was published in 2014. A link to the document is below.
http://www.rother.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=21130&p=0
Findings from the review are set out on pages 7 and 8 of the document.
John Collins
Rother District Council
http://www.rother.gov.uk
From: FOI@wiltshire.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 11:16 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: RFI - ENQ05140-REQ001: Strategy for tackling and preventing
homelessness
Dear Mr.Mortimer,
Our Homeless Strategy was last reviewed and adopted
in 2010, however each year we review our homeless and prevention
statistics and review the ways we are able to prevent and tackle homelessness.
A mapping
& gapping exercise was carried out at that time & no groups
were excluded in our community.
Kind regards
Pat Prince
Wiltshire Council
http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk
From: Hazel.Robertson@shetland.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 10:41 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 6223 Homeless Strategy information
Dear Mr Mortimer
The last audit was completed in December 2014. It was an internal audit which did not include a mapping and gapping exercise, as such.
The policy can be found here:
http://www.shetland.gov.uk/housing/policies_housing_policies.asp#Policies
Best regards
Hazel Robertson
Shetland Islands Council
http://www.shetland.gov.uk/
From: Helen.McEgan@eastriding.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 9:40 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Council appointed independent consultant Gill Leng Associates to undertake a review of homelessness in East Riding in 2012. A number of gaps were identified and the review informed the new Homelessness Strategy published in 2013. A copy of the Strategy can be found on the Council's website here:
Thanks,
Helen McEgan CIHCM
East Riding Council
http://www2.eastriding.gov.uk/
From: Joan.Jones@ambervalley.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 9:21 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Act 2000 - Request for Information 128/16
Dear Mr Mortimer
The Homelessness Review and Strategy for Amber Valley Borough Council was completed last year and can be found on the Councils website
http://info.ambervalley.gov.uk/docarc/docviewer.aspx?docguid=53dcbe7ad06d44ac8f9deb8b77c5bb37
Regards
Joan Jones
Amber Valley Borough Council
http://www.ambervalley.gov.uk
From: Wendy.Coghlan@sunderland.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 16, 2016 8:33 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Response to Freedom of Information Request ref: 16-03-57
Dear David,
Sunderland City Council are currently undertaking a review on our homelessness strategy and as part of this process a mapping and gapping exercise is being undertaken. I am not aware of any groups that would be excluded in our community, as everybody has a right to housing advice/assistance.
Yours faithfully,
Wendy Coghlan
Redacting Officer
http://www.sunderland.gov.uk
From: foi@southtyneside.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 4:47 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 16.16417 RE: It costs less to house the homeless.
Dear Mr Mortimer
Yes South Tyneside Council are aware of the costs, The Crisis Report ‘At what cost’ [2015] is an illustration of this cost to the public sector. In South Tyneside we work closely in partnership with hospital discharge teams, Community Rehabilitation Companies and the National Probation Service to offer a multi-agency coordinated response to resettlement and sustainment of service users that belong to this client group.
Regards
Information Governance
South Tyneside Council
http://www.southtyneside.gov.uk/
From: Bahzad.Brifkani@hounslow.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 4:13 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: foi@hounslow.gov.uk
Subject: Re: FOI 00005112-00005113
Dear David
In response to this I would
like to advise you that all information regarding council’s prevention
of homelessness strategy is available in the public domain. The information
requested can be accessed through links below:
http://www.hounslow.gov.uk/homeless_strategy_2008.pdf
http://www.hounslow.gov.uk/housing_strategy.pdf
http://www.hounslow.gov.uk/housing_strategy_2014-2018.pdf
Regards
Bahzad Brifkani
Housing Client Services Manager
Hounslow Housing Services
-----Original Message-----
From: information.officer@reigate-banstead.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 3:15 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI Request B83FEECB Reply due by 14th April 2016
Dear Mr Mortimer
The information you have requested can be found on the Reigate & Banstead website.
http://www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk/site/scripts/google_results.php?q=homeless+strategy
Regards
Customer Contact
Reigate & Banstead Borough Council
http://www.reigate-banstead.gov.uk
From: Jacqueline.Davies@newport.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 2:41 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI RESPONSE
Good afternoon Mr Mortimers
The Council's strategy for tackling and preventing homelessness was last reviewed in 2012 as part of the Council's overall housing strategy.
Please see link - http://www.newport.gov.uk/documents/Strategies/Local-Housing-Strategy-2012-2017.pdf
This did provide a mapping exercise across a range of agendas that inevitably have an impact around homelessness. The Council are currently undertaking a review of homelessness in the area following the introduction of the Housing (Wales) Act 2014 in April 2015 and will be seeking to use this information to produce a revised strategy around homelessness and its prevention following this review which will be used to then inform service development and delivery.
Kind regards
Jackie Davies
Newport City Council
http://www.newport.gov.uk/
From: SKaewchaluay@burnley.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 2:38 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: (3730) Freedom of Information request
The Current Burnley homeless strategy covers 2013 - 2018 and is available for download on the Burnley Council Website www.burnley.gov.uk . at the time of the review a full mapping and Gapping exercise was carried out, no groups within the community were excluded.
Regards
Susan Kaewchaluay
Freedom of Information Link Officer
http://www.burnley.gov.uk
From: solihull@mail.icasework.com
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 2:35 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Information request (ref: 1387997)
Dear Mr Mortimer
Our Homelessness Strategy
was last reviewed in January 2015. A copy of the strategy, review (including
mapping and gap analysis) and action plan
are available on the Council’s website at the following link:
http://www.solihull.gov.uk/About-the-Council/Strategies-policies/housing
The review,
strategy document and action plan highlight those customer groups where
further action has been identified to provide additional
support / meet identified need e.g. single homeless people, victim of
domestic abuse, young people, people with mental health needs and exoffenders
etc. (see in particular actions 1.2, 2.1, 2.2 & 2.3 set out in the
3 year action plan).
Yours sincerely
Teresa Evans
Solihull Council
http://www.solihull.gov.uk
From: Hannah.Woods@horsham.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 2:21 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Nathalie.Sabatelli@horsham.gov.uk
Subject: FOI 462 - Tackling and preventing homelessness
Dear
Please find the answers to your FOI request below.
The above links refer to the most recent homelessness prevention work carried out by Horsham District Council.
Hannah Woods
Horsham District Council
https://www.horsham.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Clifford.Walker@copeland.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 1:45 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act. FOI 4831
Dear Mr Mortimer
Copeland Borough Council Homelessness strategy was last reviewed in 2013 and is available on our website.
http://ntintranet/search/homelessness%20strategy
No groups were identified as excluded.
Yours sincerely
Cliff Walker
Copeland Borough Council
http://www.copeland.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: tjones@staffordbc.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 1:38 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Dear Mr Mortimer,
A copy of the Cabinet agenda and minutes can be viewed here:
http://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/14/15-committee-meetings
A copy of the Strategy and Evidence Review can be found here:-
http://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/homelessness-strategy-2015-2019
Yours sincerely,
Tomos Jones
Stafford Borough Council
http://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Accesstoinformation@blackburn.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 1:22 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: 00372 FOI Request
Dear David,
The Council's Homelessness Strategy was published in 2014 and has been published on the Council's website :-
http://www.blackburn.gov.uk/Lists/DownloadableDocuments/HomelessnessStrategy2014.pdf
The Strategy identifies priority actions to support vulnerable groups.
Kind Regards,
Information Governance Team
Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council
http://www.blackburn.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: foi@eastdevon.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 12:45 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information - Ref 101000500764 UNCLASSIFIED:
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Thank you for your request for information. Please find the response to your query below.
Please will you kindly tell me when your strategy for tackling and preventing homelessness was last reviewed? - The Homelessness Strategy was last reviewed in March 2013 and is due for renewal in 2018.
Was a mapping and gapping exercise carried out at that time, and were any groups identified who were excluded in your community? - No 'mapping and gapping' exercise has been carried out.
Yours sincerely,
Ms S Harvey
East Devon District Council
http://www.eastdevon.gov.uk
From: tracey.wood@easthants.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 12:42 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI Request
Good Afternoon Mr Mortimer,
Thank you for your FOI request regarding the Homelessness Strategy. It was last reviewed in 2013. At this time it was identified that there was a lack of resources for single vulnerable people within the Borough and with the changes to Supporting People funding locally it was identified that this group would be at risk.
Since then we have worked with the County Council to review services for the Socially Excluded – now renamed the Socially Included and a new contract will be delivered 1/4/2016 which has an emphasis on single homeless.
I will be reviewing the Action Plan this year as we will need to consider the impact of the Welfare Reform/LHA changes on our most vulnerable customers moving forward and the impact of the Housing and Planning Bill on development of affordable housing.
Kind Regards
Tracey Wood
East Hampshire District Council & Havant Borough Council
http://www.easthants.gov.uk/
From: FOI@southlakeland.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 12:37 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Request for information under the freedom of information act.
F16139
Dear David,
I am writing in respect of your recent enquiry for information held by the Council under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act. You asked the following:
Please will you kindly tell me when your strategy for tackling & preventing homelessness was last reviewed & if a mapping & gapping exercise was carried out at that time & if identified any groups who were excluded in your community?
I can confirm the information you have requested is already available on the council’s website:
Homelessness strategy 2013-2018 at:
http://www.southlakeland.gov.uk/council-business/policies-and-plans/?entryid70=43883
Homelessness review 2013 at:
http://www.southlakeland.gov.uk/council-business/policies-and-plans/?entryid70=43890
Yours sincerely,
Emma Nichols
South Lakeland District Council
http://www.southlakeland.gov.uk
From: FOI@n-kesteven.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 12:05 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI Request 15/512 - Homeless Study
Dear Mr Mortimers,
I refer to previous correspondence regarding your request for information relating to: Homeless Study.
The following information you requested is given below and was provided by North Kesteven District Council’s Housing Needs Manager:
Please will you kindly tell me if you are aware of the recent studies which have been done which show it cost 3 times more to jail homeless people than it does to provide them with housing & 5 times more if they are put in a hospitalised environment?
We can confirm that we are aware of the recent studies and reports analysing the cost and impact of homelessness.
Yours sincerely
Alex Sales
North Kesteven District Council
http://www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/
From: freedomofinformation@bexley.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 11:41 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Information request (ref: 2925996)
Dear Mr Mortimer
With continued growth in homelessness, we are continually keeping our prevention and assessment work under review. At the end of 2015, we reconfigured the housing teams to place more emphasis on prevention activity. Parental/family and friend exclusion cases make up approximately a third of homeless cases in Bexley, and following last years review, more resources have been put into family mediation, assisting young peoiple into the private sector and securing placements on work programs.
We strive
to prevent as many homeless cases as possible which has been demonstrated
this financial year with a lower number of acceptances, despite an increase
in approaches to our department.
Regards,
Joanne Songer
London Borough of Bexley
http://www.bexley.gov.uk
From: foi@ThreeRivers.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 11:11 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Request for information under the freedom of information
act.
Mr Mortimer
The Council's Homelessness Strategy was last reviewed in 2014 and agreed by the Sustainable Development, Planning and Transport Committee at its meeting on 18 November 2014 - please see
Regards
Phil King
Three Rivers District Council
http://www.threerivers.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: Andrew.Rowe@scarborough.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 9:45 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: FOI@scarborough.gov.uk
Subject: FOI 4322
Dear David
I can confirm that our Homelessness Strategy was reviewed in November 2015. This exercise including a mapping exercise that highlighted a range of excluded/ vulnerable groups within the community. Available resources are being distributed to meet these needs.
The strategy can be found at:
Yours sincerely
http://www.scarborough.gov.uk/
From: ComplaintsAndFOI@maidstone.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 9:29 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 5183
Dear Mr Mortimer,
The information you requested is available on our website. Please click on the following links for our:
· Homelessness Review http://www.maidstone.gov.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/62437/Homelessness-Review-2014-sept-2014.pdf; and
· Homelessness Strategy http://www.maidstone.gov.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/9518/Homelessness-Strategy-2014-2019-Sept-2014.pdf.
Yours sincerely
Samuel Bailey
Maidstone Borough Council
http://www.maidstone.gov.uk
From: Hilary.Parkey@highland.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 8:58 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Homelessness Enquiry
Dear Mr Mortimer
Yes, we are very aware of the high costs of homelessness on different services and the consequences on the lives of people and services if they don’t have somewhere stable and secure to stay.
We work in partnership with a number of organisations including for example, the Prison, Police Scotland, NHS Highland, Criminal Justice Services to both prevent people becoming homeless and, if they are homeless, to find them stable housing with, if they require it, support to help them maintain their housing and help to access services. We are continuing to improve our services and find better ways of working in partnership with others. Studies like the one you mention are very useful to us.
You might be interested in our Housing Strategy which gives you a flavour of how we are working in partnership to reduce and prevent homelessness -
http://www.highland.gov.uk/info/917/housing/658/housing_strategy
Regards
Hilary Parkey
The Highland Council
https://highland.gov.uk/
From: mail@chrisw9.plus.com
Sent: Tuesday, March 15, 2016 8:44 AM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Cc: hannah.o'neill@milton-keynes.gov.uk;
douglas.mccall@milton-keynes.gov.uk
Subject: RE: Preventing homelessness is far more cost effective than
dealing with it once it has occurred.
Dear Mr Mortimer,
As you are aware, I am the housing & regeneration spokesperson for one of the political parties on MK Council, not a Member of the Labour Administration – I am, therefore, not the right person to answer this particular question. You will recall, however, that I responded to one of your earlier e-mails by including an electronic copy of a report that had just been completed on homelessness. I have included that e-mail and report herewith for your information. The Cabinet accepted the report in full, including the various conclusions and recommendations.
I have included Cllr Hannah O’Neill onto this reply, as she is best placed to answer your enquiry with regard to tackling and preventing homelessness.
Regards,
Cllr Chris Williams
From: mayor@london.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 14, 2016 4:15 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: MGLA070316-6730 Re: It costs less to house the homeless.
Dear Mr Mortimer
Thanks for sharing the results of your recent research with us.
Yours sincerely
Mary Devereux
Greater London Authority
https://www.london.gov.uk/
From: FOI@merthyr.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 14, 2016 2:40 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI 4619
Dear Sirs
We have considered your request and provide the following information:
Please will you kindly tell me if you are aware of the recent studies which have been done which show it cost 3 times more to jail homeless people than it does to provide them with housing & 5 times more if they are put in a hospitalised environment?
The Councils Housing Services Department is aware many studies which try to quantify the costs of homelessness.
Yours faithfully
Freedom of Information Officer
Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council
http://www.merthyr.gov.uk
From: cllrpaulwilliams@gmail.com
Sent: Monday, March 14, 2016 11:01 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Cc: paul.williams@milton-keynes.gov.uk
Subject: Re: Preventing homelessness is far more cost effective than
dealing with it once it has occurred.
Thanks Mr Mortimer
I am not the Cabinet member for this area. However I do know Milton Keynes Council have reviewed their Rough Sleeping Strategy very recently, having raised the issue at a Council meeting a few months ago.
Rough sleeping is of course different to statutory homelessness and I know MKC have also been doing a lot in this area, including the building of council homes and setting up a partnership with St Mungo’s to provide temporary accommodation and support people into permanent accommodation.
The best people to contact about the two strategies would be Cllr Hannah O’Neill and Councillor Liz Gifford, who lead on housing and community safety issues.
Thanks
Regards
Cllr Paul Williams
Central Milton Keynes
Milton Keynes Council
From: housing.centre@sutton.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 14, 2016 10:27 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: foi@sutton.gov.uk
Subject: Housing the Homeless
Dear Mr Mortimer
I can confirm that we are aware of the Crisis research paper 'At What Cost' published in July 2015
Kind Regards
Helen Davies
Acting Homeless Prevention and Housing Needs Service Manager
London Borough of Sutton
From: jferrans01@gmail.com
Sent: Saturday, March 12, 2016 10:10 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Subject: RE: Potentially catastrophic effects for Tory & potential
Tory candidates & anyone who has not opposed their regeneration
policy.
David,
I’m not sure what link you feel there is between homelessness and the regeneration plans, but the regeneration plans are aimed at improving the homes and the district for those who already live there, and providing some extra housing, which will help the homelessness situation.
I suggest you take the matter up with the councillors who represent your area, ie Margaret Burke, Brian White and Alex Walker.
Jenni Ferrans
From: Pauline.Wallis@Milton-keynes.gov.uk
Sent: Saturday, March 12, 2016 7:37 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Subject: RE: Potentially catastrophic effects for Tory & potential
Tory candidates & anyone who has not opposed their regeneration
policy.
Dear David,
I think what you are suggesting is already being considered. Do not quote me on this but it was the opinion of a few of us in the group. I am well aware of how the North is coping as I am a Northerner. But I will do as you suggest. I have already advised our group of what has been achieved in Manchester and we are working with St Mango’s to provide dwellings for Temporary accommodation. The properties will be available next month and more the month after.
The new housing bill will make everything, even more difficult for people. We will not be able to offer B&B. The government are trying to do away with Council housing and force people to buy, a sorry state of affairs. There will always be people who cannot cope with buying due to wages and life styles. But we are accused of suppressing Social Mobility.
I thank you for emailing me David and truly I wish we could do a lot more than we do now. It is just not the case we can deliver what we want. We do not have overall majority of the council and it is thought after May the Tories will be back in control. They fight us every step of the way. Anything we suggest is shot down by them.
The St Mango’s was discussed at council and the Tories did not want us to do it, because they constantly quote Tax Payers money and Unions at us. We are who we are and yet they believe they have this God given right to rule.
Sincerely
Pauline Wallis
From: mail@chrisw9.plus.com
Sent: Saturday, March 12, 2016 7:36 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Cc: douglas.mccall@milton-keynes.gov.uk
Subject: RE: Potentially catastrophic effects for Tory & potential
Tory candidates & anyone who has not opposed their regeneration
policy.
Dear Mr Mortimer,
I would NOT support a proposal to stop the Regeneration schemes. Homelessness and regeneration are complex but entwined – without good quality housing there will never be sufficient homes for those on low incomes and those who are homeless. What I CAN assure you of however is that the Liberal Democrat councillors on MK Council will not permit either the Labour group or the Conservatives to press ahead with any regeneration scheme that does not have the overwhelming support of local residents, the Parish / Town council and the residents Associations. The Lib Dem group believes that regeneration is essential – but only after extensive and meaningful consultation and with the backing of the residents.
Regards,
Cllr Chris Williams
-----Original Message-----
From: FOI@dumgal.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 11, 2016 4:11 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk;
FOIResponses@dumgal.gov.uk
Subject: Case Reference 179194 Costs of housing the homeless
Please find below the Council's response to your request 179194 which was received on 22/02/2016.
Details of request: It costs less to house the homeless.
Please will you kindly tell me if you are aware of the recent studies which have been done which show it cost 3 times more to jail homeless people than it does to provide them with housing and 5 times more if they are put in a hospitalised environment?
Response:
Yes, we are aware of several pieces of research.
Neil Hamlet, Consultant in Public Health with NHS Fife has undertaken research on What's The Role of Health and Social Care in Homeless, and Health and Homelessness: the right to the highest attainable standard of health?
VOX Central
Florida recently published Providing Housing To the Homeless is 3 times
cheaper than leaving them on the street.
Kind Regards
FOI Unit
Dumfries and Galloway Council
http://www.dumgal.gov.uk/
From: Leigh.Hayler@Bournemouth.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 11, 2016 10:17 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI Request - Homelessness
Dear Mr Mortimers
I can confirm that Bournemouth Borough Council is aware of the studies cited and the cost implications of crisis intervention. Further, the council is mindful of the devastating impact such crisis situations have on individuals and families. Therefore our Homelessness Strategy outlines a commitment to prevention work, as well as our work to provide homelessness relief.
The Council is committed to working in partnership with a wide range of agencies and groups in order to prevent homelessness and the need for crisis intervention. The Council's Homelessness Strategy Manager, Caroline Roundhill, is currently developing a new Homelessness Strategy which will have a strong prevention element. Consultations are currently underway with all stakeholders, including service users, to ensure that the strategy meets the current and future needs of homeless people and those at risk of homelessness in the town.
Yours sincerely
Leigh Hayler
Senior Business Support Officer
http://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/
From: Stephen.Carter@camden.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, March 09, 2016 12:20 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Response to Information request (ref: 20485596)
Dear Mr. Mortimer
You requested information on:
It costs less to house the homeless.
Please will you kindly tell me if you are aware of the recent studies which have been done which show it cost 3 times more to jail homeless people than it does to provide them with housing & 5 times more if they are put in a hospitalised environment?
Yes, LBC housing needs teams are aware of this
Yours sincerely
Stephen Carter
Information & Records Management Officer
https://www.camden.gov.uk/
From: FOI@nelincs.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 08, 2016 4:46 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information Request request 1461_1516
Dear Mr Mortimer
I can confirm that North East Lincolnshire Council is aware of the studies you refer to.
Yours sincerely on behalf of North East Lincolnshire Council
Feedback Officer
http://www.nelincs.gov.uk/
From: lbbd.foi@mail.icasework.com
Sent: Tuesday, March 08, 2016 1:50 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Information request (ref: 679633)
Dear David Mortimers
Thank you for your recent communication to the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham (Ref: 679633), in regards to “it costs less to house the homelessness” this was received on the 5th March 2016. I have passed your email to the Housing Advice department for their information. As stated in our response to your previous Freedom of Information Request (Ref: 679633) “The London Borough of Barking of Dagenham Housing Advice team does not know the comparative cost of imprisonment against housing someone. We do not hold any accurate information on the cost of homelessness, but are aware of the homelessness link has published 26k as the average financial cost of homelessness”
Yours sincerely
The FoI Team
https://www.lbbd.gov.uk/residents/
-----Original Message-----
From: T.Day@harborough.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 08, 2016 11:05 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: Action: It costs less to house the homeless.
Dear Mr Mortimer,
I can confirm we are aware of research and studies that set out the financial and health and wellbeing benefits of homeless prevention and relief. As a District Council we work with partners in the health service and police to try to identify and tackle the root causes of homelessness as this results in the best outcomes all around. One such initiative is around hospital discharge where we work with the NHS to ensure suitable accommodation is ready and available for those leaving hospital. A key reason for this is to reduce 'bed blocking' if a person cannot be discharged simply because they have no place to go.
Please visit our website to find out more information about homelessness and Harborough District Council.
Kind Regards,
Tom Day
Harborough District Council
https://www.harborough.gov.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: tjones@staffordbc.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 07, 2016 6:01 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: It costs less to house the homeless.
Dear Mr Mortimer,
I refer to your recent enquiry under the Freedom of Information Act and can confirm that following receipt of your recent email the authority is aware of recent studies covering the impact of homelessness.
You may wish to view our recently revised Homelessness Strategy to get an understanding of the steps taken by the Council to prevent homelessness and acknowledge the fact that the Council has recently achieved Bronze Standard for its Housing Options service from the National Practitioner Support Service.
http://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/live/Documents/Policy%20and%20Plans/Homelessness-Strategy.pdf
If you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact me at these offices.
Yours sincerely,
Tomos Jones
Stafford Borough Council
http://www.staffordbc.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: May.Read@southnorthants.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 07, 2016 5:17 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: It costs less to house the homeless
Hello David,
Thank you for your messages of 21 February and today.
The principle that the prevention of homelessness and provision of housing has wider social and financial benefits is well established. As other authorities have responded, there is research within the UK sector evidencing the financial benefits of providing housing.
If you wish us to respond to your views on a specific piece of research, please do let us know the research referred to and your questions or comments,
Regards,
May Read
South Northamptonshire Council
http://www.southnorthants.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: foi@orkney.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, March 07, 2016 1:52 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: 2016-0194 It costs less to house the homeless.
Dear Sir
We are aware of a difference in figures in this respect, however Orkney experiences rural homelessness, as opposed to rough sleeping, and as such this comparison is of little relevance.
Kind regards
George Vickers
Orkney Islands Council
http://www.orkney.gov.uk
From: mail@chrisw9.plus.com
Sent: Sunday, March 06, 2016 3:12 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Subject: RE: Milton Keynes councils housing policy has not & will
not deal with the growing problem of homelessness.
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Thank you for your e-mail – I am responding for and on behalf of the Milton Keynes Liberal Democrats, as their Housing and Regeneration spokesperson.
“…Milton Keynes councils housing policy has not & will not deal with the growing problem of homelessness…”
The Liberal Democrats agree with you and, as you may already be aware, I, along with Cllr Douglas Mccall and other Councillors, have recently finished a Report on homelessness in Milton Keynes. One of the key recommendations is that major changes are needed to MK Council’s planning policies if we are to meet the hopes and aspirations of a burgeoning population. I attach a copy of the Report for your information. Please feel free to forward the Report to anyone else, if you so wish – all I ask is that it is not altered in any way. MK Council’s Cabinet will debate the Report and its recommendations on Monday 14th March at 6:30 pm, in the Council chamber at the Civic Offices – you would be very welcome to attend and express your point of view!
“…even if the Tories build a million new affordable homes…”
The Liberal Democrats believe that the Conservative Government’s definition of “Affordable Homes” is NOT the same as the definition believed by the majority of other people, local Councils and Housing Associations! Some research undertaken by the Local Government Association (LGA) revealed some startling and distressing figures. If the Conservative Government’s Housing Bill becomes law, the Councils that responded fear the following: -
78% of the Councils say there will be an increase in homelessness
90% state that the number of council homes will decrease
74% believe that homes sold under “Right to Buy” will never be replaced and
82% commented that there would be less estate regeneration.
Amongst other findings is that renting in the private sector will increase, social housing renting will decrease and Council housing waiting lists will increase.
The Liberal Democrats in Milton Keynes do NOT believe that the Conservatives will ever build truly “affordable homes” and, under this Government, the numbers of homeless families and individuals will increase, without the necessary funding available to Councils to build sufficient new Council houses. The recommendations contained within our Report are, therefore, aimed at finding radical solutions to the problems raised by the Government’s seeming unwillingness to recognize the problem – or, indeed, to commit to providing homes that people can really afford to buy or rent. I would be very happy to continue to correspond with you on these issues, if you so wish!
Regards,
Cllr Chris Williams
From: mayor@london.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 04, 2016 6:50 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: MGLA220216-5643 It costs less to house the homeless.
Dear Mr Mortimer,
Thank you for your email to the Mayor of London about homelessness. I have been asked to respond on his behalf.
We are aware of a number of studies on the potential cost savings that result from assisting those who face homelessness, including the assessment At what cost? An estimation of the financial costs of single homelessness in the UK, commissioned by the charity Crisis, completed at York University's Centre for Housing Policy, and published last year. Indeed, in 2012, Social Finance undertook some work on the costs incurred by criminal justice, health and other services in assisting a group of persistent rough sleepers, as part of the case for the creation of the world's first rough sleeping Social Impact Bond (SIB), which has been administered by the Greater London Authority.
The SIB reflects the Mayor's strong commitment to tackling rough sleeping in London. He works hard with local authorities, national government and voluntary sector organisations to try and prevent individuals from ending up on the street and to help those who do to stop sleeping rough. This work includes investing in the region of £9m a year in London-wide services for rough sleepers. Among them is the flagship service No Second Night Out (http://www.nosecondnightout.org.uk). This service runs centres where homeless people can be quickly and safely assessed, then offered support or accommodation that is appropriate to their particular needs. Its approach is underpinned by the recognition that - as your email to the Mayor suggests - quick intervention is important, because it prevents deterioration in the sort of problems that may have caused someone to become homeless in the first place. Since the service was introduced, over 8,000 people have been helped by it and around three out of four rough sleepers now spend just one night on the streets. Further information on the services commissioned by the Mayor is available at https://www.london.gov.uk/what-we-do/housing-and-land/homelessness/mayor%E2%80%99s-rough-sleeping-services
In terms of accommodating those who experience homelessness, the Mayor funds the development of hostel accommodation, as part of his investment in affordable housing. This sort of accommodation provides those who have ended up on the streets can receive the help they need to get their lives back on track. He recently awarded £18.5m to 14 supported accommodation, some of them specifically for young people at risk of homelessness.
Thank you again for your email.
Kind regards,
Deborah Halling
GREATER LONDON AUTHORITY
http://www.london.gov.uk/
From: Elaine.Bastable@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, March 04, 2016 2:08 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: It costs less to house the homeless
Dear Mr Mortimer,
In response to your email, Portsmouth City Council is fully aware of the studies you have mentioned.
Unfortunately the reasons why people sleep rough are often very complex and not purely a housing issue. Sometimes people do not want to engage with the help and support available or have difficulties in sustaining accommodation.
The city has more than 200 supported housing units available for single homeless people, 4 emergency bed spaces, and a day centre where those sleeping rough can access shower facilities, a meal, clothing and bedding. There is also a specialist GP practise that homeless people can access without the need to be registered. This enables us to keep our number of rough sleepers low, but we have had an increase this year.
The people sleeping rough in Portsmouth are all known to the homeless services in the area and have been either offered accommodation or support to address the reasons why they have not been able to manage previous accommodation placements. This doesn’t mean we give up on individuals, services will continue to offer assistance with the aim of getting people off the street.
Regards
Elaine Bastable
Portsmouth City Council
http://www.portsmouth.gov.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: Edith.Bald@Milton-keynes.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2016 10:17 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Subject: Re: Do you have any concerns?
David
No I don't because when Conservatives ran the MK Council we looked after
vulnerable people very well. We began building new council homes, we
purchased new council homes off the open market, we reduced Band B by
nearly half, introduced what has turned out to be a very successful
council tax support scheme, maintained .......... And last year we successfully
overturned extremely punitive measures proposed by Labour in their budget
eg taking £900k out if bus subsidies, shutting hostels for the
homeless and slashing various grants to voluntary groups. On top of
this both years Labour have run the Council with an overdraft. So I
am not at all concerned about a conservative run council. I am absolutely
sure I would do a better job than Labour.
Best Regards
Cllr Edith Bald, Conservative
Group Leader
Ward Cllr Tattenhoe, Westcroft, Oxley Park, Kingsmead
http://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/
From: housing.customerserviceteam@falkirk.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2016 11:00 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information
Dear Mr Mortimer
In response to your request, I can confirm that we are aware of the recent study which has come out regarding the cost of housing homeless.
Yours sincerely
Customer Services Team
Falkirk Council
http://www.falkirk.gov.uk/contact-us/
From: kevinwilson4653@gmail.com
Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2016 8:27 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Subject: Re: Milton Keynes councils housing policy has not & will
not deal with the growing problem of homelessness.
On this aspect you are quite right. Government policy is making matters worse every day and in almost every way. Its a real crisis. The Labour Council are doing everything possible to build as many Council houses as possible
Kevin
From: cllroneill@gmail.com
Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2016 3:11 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Subject: Re: Milton Keynes councils housing policy has not & will
not deal with the growing problem of homelessness.
Dear David,
Thank you again for your email. The housing crisis is deepening and
worsening nationally, and you are quite right about the Gov't scheme,
only a handful will benefit, especially as after five years the properties,
when sold, will be sold on the open market with no affordability.
As an administration we are doing everything we can to mitigate this
impact, we have brought in a number of different types of temporary
accommodation so we aren't having to put as many homeless families in
B&B, we are working harder with the private rented sector to source
properties from there and we have the largest council house building
programme outside of London.
However the reality is that Government are introducing policies that
will make it harder and harder for Local Authorities to provide social
housing.
Whilst there is always room to improve and seek alternative options,
which we are doing, I do not believe it is our policy that is the major
problem, I think it is the lack of sustainable policies and a positive
strategy from Central Gov't that is the problem.
I hope that helps answer your question
Cllr Hannah O'Neill
Deputy Leader & Cabinet Member for Housing and Regeneration
Woughton Ward
Milton Keynes Counci
lhttp://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/
From: Alan.Webb@Milton-keynes.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2016 2:46 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Subject: RE: Milton Keynes councils housing policy has not & will
not deal with the growing problem of homelessness.
Dear David
I shall pass on your concern’s and with out sticking up for anyone ! I agree with you this is a major crisis which will only be made far worse shortly when the chancellor imposes more cut’s on council budget’s and there are four more year’s of cut’s moving forward and the government want’s rid of social housing & housing association properties being sold at a loss with even less revenue being returned to council’s coffer’s and year on year rent’s being cut’s revenue cannot be generated to rebuild enough social affordable rented home’s ,private landlord’s are ripping the public off the tenant’s ! then terminating contract’s! selling that or those properties’ ! putting pressure on council’s! to fill the gap from the remaining properties’ that are dwindling fast ! they have not got, ! and also remember bedroom tax also has a major impact on property availability along with migration with no end seemingly in sight I must add before I close that this is something forced on the local council // Administration from GOVERNMENT and who ever the administration is from May 2016 onwards the situation can only deepen Ballot boxes and voting who does best locally only 2020 can change these crippling cut’s to every thing.
Regards
Cllr Alan Webb
Bletchley East Ward
http://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/
From: jferrans01@gmail.com
Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2016 2:00 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Subject: RE: Milton Keynes councils housing policy has not & will
not deal with the growing problem of homelessness.
Dear David,
We (Lib Dems) absolutely agree, which is why we have been opposing the raft of measures the Tories nationally have been proposing to remove funding from the social housing sector, and we have been proposing any measures we can find locally to increase social housing, whether Council or Housing Association.
Unfortunately, the electorate nationally voted the Tories a majority, and until recently Labour locally did not realise the scale of the problem, and supported watering down motions! That has, thank goodness, now stopped, but the Tories still remain generally opposed to the council investing in social housing.
We continue to press the case and to propose innovative measures to increase the supply.
Jenni Ferrans
MK Lib Dems
http://mklibdems.focusteam.org.uk/
From: Lisa.Wheatley@croydon.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, March 01, 2016 9:00 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Information@croydon.gov.uk
Subject: It costs less to be homeless - response
Dear Mr Mortimer
Thank you for your enquiry regarding the cost of homelessness.
Croydon Council are proactive in working with customers who approach the council as homeless as part of our prevention service which sits within our new Gateway Department. The aim of the service is to support our customers, prevent homelessness and reduce both the social and financial cost that this brings.
Support we offer our customers who approach us include:
· Financial support for rent in advance and deposits
· Debt advice
· Budget advice
· Income maximisation
· Referrals to employment
· Welfare rights advice
· Housing advice
Homeless prevention is one of our top priorities with different areas focusing on reducing homelessness in the borough.
Kind regards
Lisa Wheatley
Resolutions and development manager
Croydon Council
http://www.croydon.gov.uk
From: Tracey.Watkinson@northyorks.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, February 29, 2016 9:37 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information request N0728
Dear Mr Mortimer
We are aware of recent studies (Crisis At what cost? An estimation of the financial costs of single homelessness in the UK, 2015) on the financial costs of single homelessness in the UK, which builds on research both in Europe and North America on the concern that sustained and repeated homelessness may have significant impacts on public expenditure. Costs for health care systems, including mental health services and emergency services at hospitals may be particularly high, as may the costs from the criminal justice systems.
Yours sincerely
Tony Law Head of Performance
and Intelligence
http://www.northyorks.gov.uk
From: foi@middlesbrough.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, February 26, 2016 2:35 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RESPONSE TO FREEDOM OF INFORMATION REQUEST - REF NO: 009303
Dear Mr Mortimer
Yes, the Council is aware of a number of studies over the years which have demonstrated that it costs less to provide housing to homeless people than it does for them to be accommodated in prison or hospital. This, and other best practice information, is used both strategically and operationally to inform service delivery and work with partner agencies.
Yours sincerely
Steph Robson
Freedom of Information Officer
Middlesbrough Council
http://www.middlesbrough.gov.uk/
From: ACSFOI@worcestershire.gov.uk
Sent: Friday, February 26, 2016 1:28 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: FOI Request 9873066
Dear David
WCC are not aware of the
report to which you refer, however a briefing on Homelessness has recently
been completed as part of our Joint Strategic Needs Assessment, which
can be found at the following link: http://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/downloads/file/6146/2015_briefing_on_homelessness
and includes reference to the following studies:
• Chartered Institute of Housing. 2014. A Memorandum of Understanding
to support joint action on improving health through the home. London:
Chartered Institute of Housing.
• Crisis. 2015. About Homelessness. London: Crisis.
• Homeless Link. 2014. The unhealthy state of homelessness –
Health Audit Results 2014. London: Homeless Link. (The estimates are
based on an audit of over 2,500 homeless people using services in 19
areas across England between January 2012 and March 2014).
• Mental Health Foundation. 2007. Fundamental Facts. London: Mental
health Foundation.
• Mental Health Network. 2014. Key facts and trends in mental
health. London: NHS Confederation.
• NHS England. 2013. Cost of health inequalities. London: institute
of Health Equity.
• Office for National Statistics/Department for Communities and
Local Government. 2014. Rough Sleeping in England
• Sheffield University. 2014. Homelessness Kills. London: Crisis.
(These estimates of age of life expectancy are based on analysis of
over 1,700 death records of people recorded as homeless).
• Shelter. 2006. Chance of a lifetime – The impact of poor
housing on children’s lives. London: Shelter.
• Worcestershire County Council. 2010. Single Homeless Needs Analysis.
Worcester: Supporting People.
• Worcestershire County Council. Worcestershire Housing Strategy
2011-16.
Imelda Day
Worcestershire County Council
http://www.worcestershire.gov.uk
From: Lgrange@chichester.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2016 4:21 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: It costs less to house the homeless.
Dear Mr Mortimer
I can advise
you that officers are aware of studies which have been carried out in
the United States and Canada which compare the cost of housing homeless
people with the associated medical and other costs of homelessness.
Regards
Linda Grange
Chichester District Council
http://www.chichester.gov.uk
From: HVancliff@northampton.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2016 2:51 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: in response to your question about housing homeless people
Dear Mr Mortimer
We are fully aware of the costs of homelessness, and its impact on the person who is homeless and on society at large. Unfortunately if a person is sent to jail or hospital being housed will not change that. We are aware that having stable accommodation does improve health and can reduce offending. We work with the hospitals on discharges to ensure someone retains their home when taken into hospital and help them to find a home on discharge. We do the same through the probation and prison service for those sent to jail or on community sentences.
We are very committed to try to house as many people as possible, and in addition have statutory duties to house particular groups of people – those who are homeless, eligible, in priority need, not made themselves homeless, and have a local connection. We run a housing register which advertises both our own vacancies and those of housing associations to help those looking for accommodation having to apply only once.
The issues we and all local authorities are facing are:
a) Lack of vacancies in the social rented stock. People are not leaving their social housing due to the high cost of alternatives.
b) High cost of home ownership, which adds pressure on the alternatives
c) High cost of private rented together with a shortage of supply. This means that private landlords are able to let their homes to those in work who have no need to rely on benefits in full or part to pay their rent. In addition due to the shortage of supply in relation to demand, private landlords are increasing their rents to well above housing benefit limits, further forcing out those on lower incomes. Private landlords are also not willing to let to those in work who work for agencies, or who do not earn enough to meet their multipliers. You have to earn a min of 30 times the monthly rent before you are even considered.
Sustaining accommodation is not just about providing a home. For many there is a need for support to learn how to manage a home, learn to cook, clean, keep safe, stop abusing alcohol, drugs both legal, prescription and illegal. There is insufficient supported housing due to funding cuts. Oasis House was built to support street homeless people and to provide supported accommodation for up to 48 street homeless people. This is insufficient for the numbers who need it.
To ensure all agencies working with those who are street homeless are working to reduce street homelessness, we have started a dialogue with them to produce a Rough Sleepers strategy. This will set out our expectations on what all agencies in this field will do to help people come off the streets.
The housing situation is very difficult as you can see and as you have observed. We do require more houses to be built, we require more houses at a price people can afford, and we require more supported housing . But please be assured, we are not ignoring homelessness, but working hard to reduce it.
I hope this answers your questions, but please feel free to contact me if not.
regards
Helene Vancliff
Northampton Borough Council
http://www.northampton.gov.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: Cfranklin@torfaen.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2016 2:12 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: It costs less to house the homeless.
Dear Mr Mortimer
I can confirm that the Council does keep abreast of new research, so we are aware of such studies.
Yours sincerely
Catherine Franklin
Torfaen County Borough Council
http://www.torfaen.gov.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: gemma.thompson@solihull.gov.uk
Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2016 12:40 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: It costs less to house the homeless.
Dear David,
In response to your query below, the Council and our partners are aware of several recent pieces of research citing the cost of homelessness and how better value for money can be achieved by preventing homelessness and providing support to people to access and maintain independent accommodation. Figures cited in 2 studies that we have recently reviewed (Crisis publication - At what cost? An estimation of the financial costs of single homelessness in the UK, Nicholas Pleace, Centre for Housing Policy, University of York, July 2015 and Housing Association Charitable Trust Publication (HACT) - The Wellbeing Value of Tackling Homelessness, September 2015) estimate the costs of becoming homeless at between £10,000 and £25,000 per occurrence, spread across a range of public services, including hospitals and prisons.
It is clear through our own local experience and this national research that homelessness prevention, early intervention and support for vulnerable people can reduce the potential for individuals to become involved in crime, rough sleeping, substance misuse and to develop or exacerbate mental health issues and long term benefit dependency. The Council recognises this and Solihull's Homelessness Strategy aims to prevent homelessness wherever possible, ensuring a quality response is available to those households where homelessness cannot be prevented. The strategy has 3 main objectives, 1 of which is 'prevention and early intervention'. This sets out the approach that needs to be taken to sustain and develop homelessness prevention and housing options in Solihull. This involves the right level of support at the most appropriate time, working with households to explore the options available to them and offering targeted support to vulnerable people to prevent homelessness and avoid repeat homelessness. It is recognised that this focus ensures the most cost effective use of available resources and, perhaps most importantly, improves outcomes for those who are homeless or at risk of becoming so.
Further information on Solihull's homelessness strategy is available on the council's website:
http://www.solihull.gov.uk/About-the-Council/Strategies-policies/housing
I trust you will find this useful but if you do need any further information let me know.
Kind Regards,
Gemma Thompson
Solihull Council
http://www.solihull.gov.uk
From: harrow@icaseworkmail.com
Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 4:20 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Information request (ref: 2430895)
Dear Mr. Mortimer
We are aware of various studies about the cost of homelessness but we cannot confirm whether we are aware of the recent studies that you are referring to without more detail, such as the author and publication date. One example of a report on the cost of homelessness that we are aware of is the Crisis report ‘At what cost?’ by Nicholas Pleace which was published in July 2015.
Kind regards
Mark Fosh
Housing Information Team Manager
http://www.harrow.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: foi@eden.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 10:20 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: It costs less to house the homeless. FOI Ref no 03679
Dear David
I am advised that our officers are aware of the recent studies referred to.
Regards
Rosalyn Richardson
Eden District Council
http://www.eden.gov.uk/
From: housingfoi@cornwall.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 10:20 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: It costs less to house the homeless.
Good Morning
Cornwall Housing are aware that it costs 3 times more to jail homeless people than it does to provide them with housing & 5 times more if they are put in a hospitalised environment.
Thank you
Kirsty Calvert
Performance and Project Co-ordinator
http://www.cornwallhousing.org.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: foi@great-yarmouth.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:53 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Re: It costs less to house the homeless. FOI2016-98
Dear David
We are aware of the relative costs however homelessness decisions are made in accordance with the Housing Act 1985 , as amended.
Yours sincerely
Geoff Jones
Great Yarmouth Borough Council
http://www.great-yarmouth.gov.uk/
From: Housingenquiry@malvernhills.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, February 23, 2016 1:50 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: It costs less to house the homeless.
Hello David
I am aware of such reports and you may find this of interest also:
However I am practitioner and not a lobbyist so as you will appreciate you have raised a complex political argument.
Kind regards
Matthew Rothwell
Malvern Hills District Council
http://www.malvernhills.gov.uk/
From: John.Sheil@gedling.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:35 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Cc: Sarah.Klapkowski@gedling.gov.uk
Subject: Freedom of Information information request dated 21 February
2016
Dear Mr Mortimer,
We are aware of (and regularly both utilise and contribute to) a wealth of data and research undertaken by organisations such Homelessness Link; Crisis; Shelter and others which illustrates the benefits both in terms of improved outcomes for the individual and cost savings and benefits for wider society, including relating to acute services such as prisons and hospitals of preventing and tackling homelessness. As such, Gedling Borough Council is committed to preventing and tackling homelessness.
Kind regards
John Sheil
Housing Strategy and Development
Officer
Gedling Borough Council
http://www.gedling.gov.uk/
From: Simon.Heap@Milton-Keynes.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, February 23, 2016 1:13 PM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Subject: Re: Raise an issue for debate
Mr Mortimer
Meetings of the Council are chaired by the Mayor, who is currently Councillor Keith McLean.
However, if you would like to get a specific matter debated by the Council you are probably best to contact your local councillors to see if one of them would be willing to put forward a motion for the Council to discuss. While members of the public can ask questions, put forward petitions and represent a deputation, none of these will lead to a discussion unless there is a specific item on the agenda which relates.
The Councillors for Bradwell are Councillors Bradburn, Exon and Lewis. Their contact details can be obtained from the link below:
http://milton-keynes.cmis.uk.com/milton-keynes/Councillors.aspx
The next Council meeting is on 23 March 2016 and the deadline by which councillors must submit their motions is noon on 10 March 2016.
Simon Heap
Committee Services and Scrutiny Manager
http://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/
-----Original Message-----
From: FOI@preston.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, February 23, 2016 11:42 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: It costs less to house the homeless.
Dear Sir,
Further to your email I can confirm that we are
aware of the recent studies you refer to.
Yours faithfully,
Mrs. Ashcroft
Preston City Council
http://www.preston.gov.uk/thecouncil/data-protection-and-freedom-of-information/
From: Malcolm.Edington@crawley.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, February 23, 2016 12:09 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: It costs less to house the homeless
Dear Sir
We are aware of many studies that show what differences there are in costs to house certain homeless people. I personally cannot recall this one specifically, but there have been many studies looking into the costs associated with homeless people.
Kind Regards
Mal Edington
Crawley Borough Council
http://www.crawley.gov.uk
-----Original Message-----
From: FOI@preston.gov.uk
Sent: Tuesday, February 23, 2016 11:42 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: RE: It costs less to house the homeless.
Dear Sir,
Further to your email I can confirm that we are aware of the recent studies you refer to.
Yours faithfully,
Mrs. Ashcroft
Preston City Council
http://www.preston.gov.uk/
From: lambethinformationrequests@lambeth.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, February 22, 2016 5:02 PM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: Information request (ref: IR145958)
Dear Mr. Mortimer
I can confirm that we are aware of various studies that have been undertaken looking at the relative costs of different kinds of accommodation.
Yours sincerely
Richard Carter
London Borough of Lambeth
http://www.lambeth.gov.uk
From: Dick.Ikin@eastriding.gov.uk
Sent: Monday, February 22, 2016 10:47 AM
To: david@mortimers-removals.co.uk
Subject: re recent contact
Dear Mr Mortimer
I confirm
that we are aware of the cost of homelessness and that we actively strive
to assist those that find themselves homeless or threatened with loosing
their homes.
Dick Ikin
Housing and Safe Communities Group Manager
http://www2.eastriding.gov.uk/
From: Rachel.Large@milton-keynes.gov.uk
Sent: Wednesday, January 20, 2016 8:13 AM
To: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Subject: Re: Budget Consultation
Dear Mr Mortimer
Thank you for your email. It was forwarded to the Regeneration Team by Communications, apologies for the delay in responding. Please see those responses below, with further information is available on our website:
http://www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/regeneration
1. How much it will cost for the councils preferred partner to run the regeneration scheme?
Milton Keynes Council’s Cabinet approved the recommendation to enter into an equal partnership with Mears Group plc. Details about the Partnership are included in the Cabinet meeting papers for the meeting which was held on the 21st December 2015. With reference to the cost of regeneration schemes, we have no information about the cost of financing of any regeneration scheme. Each scheme will be explored on an individual basis together with any proposed financing solutions. The actual costs attributable to the partnership for the running of a project will be determined by the complexity and scope of that particular project. We should have more information on this by the end of this year.
2. What percentage rents will increase on average under the regeneration scheme for the same size property?
Rent increases will not be determined by regeneration, but by national policy. The Housing and Planning Bill currently before Parliament will require local authorities and housing associations to reduce their rents by 1% per year for the next 4 years from 2016/17.
3. How much in additional benefit payments this will cost tax payers in Milton Keynes over each of the next 5 years?
For those in receipt of housing benefit, rent increases would have been met through increased benefit payments. The regeneration proposals do not change the outcome as the rental increases or reductions as stated in our previous response to Q2. will occur with or without regeneration activity.
best regards
On behalf of the Regeneration Team
01908 252320
regeneration@milton-keynes.gov.uk
From: david@ukfamilylawreform.co.uk
Sent: Sunday, January 17, 2016 9:27 PM
To: officeofmarklancaster@parliament.uk
Subject: Milton Keynes council should ask
Dear Mark Lancaster,
I think the Housing Bill will end council housing & it will lead
to a increase in homelessness which has quadrupled in Milton Keynes
over the last 12 months & more than doubled in the UK since David
Cameron’s been prime minister. In the last couple of days there
have sadly & predictably been the first couple of reports in local
newspapers of homeless people being found dead in the streets due to
the cold weather conditions regardless of the fact that local authorities
have a corporate duty to house rough sleepers in cold weather conditions.
Does it make economic sense to sell off public properties in order to
fill funding gaps which have been created by the Government who have
chosen to impose austerity in order to balance the countries budget
deficit we are told when following George Osborne's austerity policy
between 2010 – 2015 didn’t balance the budget deficit it
doubled. Austerity leads to more privatization & increased costs
to the tax payers for the same services without personal accountability.
I don’t think the Tories should of removed the public’s
safety net or introduced the bedroom tax retrospectively which breaches
Human rights & puts people on the streets. It’s hardly surprising
to me that over half the Tories members have left their party since
the last election or that Labour has seen more new members join the
Labour party since Jeremy Corbyn was elected to be the leader with the
biggest mandate in over 150 years than there are in the whole of the
Tory party.
I think Milton Keynes council should ask the public if they want to
regenerate local authority properties in to smaller & more expensive
privately owned ones given the long term social & economic cost.
Yours Sincerely
David Mortimer