Overview

This bill aims to reduce homelessness in England by strengthening the duties of local housing authorities to help people at risk of homelessness and those who are already homeless. It introduces more robust assessment processes and expands the definition of homelessness to include those facing imminent eviction.

Description

Extended Definition of Homelessness

The bill broadens the definition of "threatened with homelessness" to encompass individuals receiving a Section 21 notice (eviction notice) with less than 56 days remaining on their tenancy.

Mandatory Advisory Services

Local housing authorities are required to provide free advisory services to anyone who may become homeless, covering homelessness prevention, securing accommodation, and accessing support services. The services must be tailored to specific needs of vulnerable groups, including ex-offenders, care leavers, veterans, domestic abuse victims, those leaving hospital and people with mental illness.

Assessment and Personalised Plans

The bill mandates that local authorities assess each eligible applicant's situation, including the causes of homelessness and their housing needs. They must then agree a plan with the applicant outlining the steps both the applicant and the authority will take to secure suitable housing.

Duties to Those at Risk or Already Homeless

Local authorities must take reasonable steps to prevent someone from becoming homeless, and to help those already homeless secure accommodation for at least six months (or up to 12 months in specified circumstances).

Dealing with Non-Cooperation

If an applicant unreasonably refuses to cooperate with the agreed plan, the authority can give notice to end their duty to provide assistance. However, this process includes warnings and review rights.

Local Connection for Care Leavers

The bill clarifies that care leavers maintain a local connection with the area of the local authority responsible for their care.

Review of Decisions

The bill expands the right to request a review of local housing authority decisions related to the new duties and assessments.

Duty to Refer Cases

Public authorities are obliged to refer cases of potential homelessness to local housing authorities.

Codes of Practice

The Secretary of State may issue codes of practice to guide local housing authorities in their duties.

Suitability of Accommodation

The bill clarifies the criteria for determining the suitability of private rented sector accommodation offered to those at risk of homelessness.

Government Spending

The bill is likely to increase government spending on homelessness prevention and support services. Specific financial figures are not provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Homeless individuals: Increased support and protection.
• Those at risk of homelessness: Greater access to prevention services and assistance.
• Local housing authorities: Increased responsibilities and potentially increased workload.
• Private landlords: Increased involvement in providing housing solutions under certain circumstances.
• Care leavers: Clarification of their local connection rights.
• Public authorities (e.g., hospitals, prisons): Duty to refer cases to local housing authorities.

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