Following the implementation of the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 in April 2018, a new strategy is necessary. The way in which the Council works has changed and therefore the existing strategy requires a complete review. Resourcing issues have delayed the completion of the new strategy.
However, officers in the Housing Service have met with stakeholders and have also undertaken a data review. Work has begun on drafting content.
Once the draft is finalised, there will be a consultation with stakeholders and then a report will go to the Homes Policy Development Group asking for a recommendation to the Cabinet that the new strategy is adopted.
Decision type: Key
Reason Key: Affects more than 1 ward;
Decision status: Implemented
Wards affected: (All Wards);
Notice of proposed decision first published: 11/07/2019
Decision due: 10 Jul 2019 by Cabinet Member for Housing and Property Services
Lead member: Cabinet Member for Housing and Property Services
Contact: Claire Fry, Operations Manager for Housing Management Services Email: cfry@middevon.gov.uk Tel: 01884 234920.
Financial, Legal and Equality Issues: Failure to extend the strategy means that the Council is not compliant with the Homelessness Act 2002.
Risk Assessment: Officers from the Housing Service have made the local representative from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government aware that the existing homelessness strategy has expired and that a new one is in development. She advised extending the life of the existing strategy for a short period to allow completion of this work. She suggested seeking a delegated decision from our Cabinet Member for Housing. Failure to have an agreed strategy means that the Council would not be compliant with relevant legislation and if this was challenged, it could result in a judicial review. there is a reputational risk associated with this and the resources needed to respond to such a challenge would be extensive. If the proposal is agreed, officers will ensure that the Housing webpages on the Council's website are updated accordingly to ensure that all stakeholders are aware that the life of the existing strategy has been extended for a short period.