Cabinet:

1. Noted the outcome of the review.
2. Agreed that officers carry out the recommended actions as set out in the report.

Councillor Joshua Chapman presented the report regarding the Review of Private Sector Leased Accommodation for the consideration of Cabinet.  The Private Sector Leasing Scheme (PSL) was introduced in 2014.  The review has been set up to look at residents in PSL properties and their needs.  It was noted that most tenants depend on benefits to pay rent.  In 2010 and 2011 central Government policy eroded the margin between the rental income levels and payments to owners due to the fact that a cap was placed on the amount of housing benefit the Council could claim back for the cost of temporary accommodation.

It was discovered that 22% of tenants live in accommodation that is either too big or too small for their needs.  There are also significant support needs for households living in PSL accommodation and so there is a clear need support services and for connections with support networks to be developed and maintained.

There are 881 households living in PSL accommodation and officers contacted all of them to arrange a visit, at a time convenient to them in order to carry out the review.

A summary of the responses are as follows:

·       686 (78%) were assessed,

·       43 (5%) declined the assessment,

·       152 (17%) failed to respond, despite numerous communication to arrange appointments with them so that the review can be carried out in their homes. They were telephoned at least 4 times, voice messages left on their phones and a letter sent asking them to make contact with officers in order for the review visits to be carried out.

The information gleaned has given the Council more clarity regarding the housing and support needs of tenants and this is set out in detail in the report.  There is still work to do to engage with those not yet contacted.  Some are very vulnerable so it presents as a challenge to provide the support needed.  There are plans for an intensive support offer for the future.

The Leader of the Council stated that he was very proud to have such an ambitious plan in the Borough for new truly affordable homes which is all part of an holistic approach to tackle the issues of homelessness as they impact on Havering.

The Review was welcomed by all.

Cabinet:

1. Noted the outcome of the review.
2. Agreed that officers carry out the recommended actions as set out in the report.