Issue - meetings

Arising from a report of the Head of Housing and Property Services, the Homes Policy Development Group has recommended that the Cabinet recommend to Council the adoption of the new Vulnerability Policy.

Arising from a * report of the Head of Housing and Property Services, the Homes Policy Development Group had recommended that the new Vulnerability Policy be approved by Council

The Cabinet Member for Housing outlined the contents of the report stating that this new policy provided guidance on identifying and supporting vulnerable tenants to help them to sustain their tenancy and promote independence.

(Proposed by Cllr R L Stanley and seconded by Cllr R J Chesterton)

Note: * Report previously circulated, copy attached to minutes.

To receive a report from the Housing Services Manager outlining the rationale for a new policy for the Housing Service relating to identifying and supporting vulnerable tenants and to seek the adoption of this.

The Group had before it a report * from the Housing Services Manager explaining the rationale for a new policy for the Housing Service relating to identifying and supporting vulnerable tenants.

The contents of the report were outlined and reference was made to the fact that it was important that all agencies working with the Housing Service knew how vulnerability was identified. It was explained that people could step in and out of vulnerability. The service had reviewed the support they provided to people coming to them via the homelessness route. The policy explained what services were available to support vulnerable people, for example hearing loops, and the support offered to people with mental health issues.

Discussion followed with regard to:

·         Statutory duties in relation to homeless people.

·         The experience and professionalism of the Neighbourhood Teams who worked imaginatively and creatively to house and support people.

·         The Housing Service worked very closely with the police and social services.

·         Officers were trained on a regular basis on how to respond to vulnerable tenants in the most appropriate way.

·         The need to make the best use of the housing stock.

·         Temporary accommodation placements were monitored on a regular basis.

·         The needs of neighbours were also taken into consideration wherever possible.

(Proposed by the Chairman)

Note: * Report previously circulated; copy attached to the signed minutes.