Report and appendices attached

Cabinet considered The Supported Housing Strategy 2022-2025 report presented by Councillor Joshua Chapman.

It was explained in the report that supported housing was key to providing the right accommodation and support to enable Havering’s vulnerable residents’ to live fulfilled lives.

The Supported Housing Strategy (appendix 1) set out the key commitments and objectives under each aim and the actions that would seek to drive the service delivery in Supported Housing over the coming years.

Councillor Chapman explained that housing solutions for the most vulnerable were being developed to increase provision for adults and young people which aimed to increase and maintain their independence. The private and independent sector could not seem to provide and place people locally and lacked the links to family and support networks. The report contained clear recommendations to meet future demands with a reduction in costs.

Officers pointed out that demand had been researched and for the next five years and to 2030 the report summarised what could be delivered. Sourcing options in various places were being examined and there were people on site and trained to support residents to improve their skills and become independent in the most cost effective manner. The timescale was set at three years and would need to be reviewed due to the dynamic needs of residents.

The Leader suggested that regeneration schemes transformed lives of those who needed it most and that a Member induction and All Member Briefing would be set for the this topic.

Members discussed and made comments on area supply and demand and having a joint commission with other boroughs. It was explained that the consideration was to seek supply within Havering and there was a confidence that could be met but specialist services may be required. Furthermore, it was suggested that there were two to this. There was the procurement required to ensure ownership of the building and then that overhead costs with larger providers so investment was primarily focused on the care. Joint commissioning work with providers would encourage delivery of service at good standing.

Cabinet:

AGREED the proposed Supported Housing Strategy attached to the report. (Appendix 1).