Overview

The Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Bill aims to improve the regulation of supported exempt accommodation in England. It introduces a licensing system, establishes a new advisory panel, and mandates local authorities to develop strategies for supported housing within their districts. The bill also seeks to clarify the circumstances under which a person may not be considered intentionally homeless if they leave supported exempt accommodation due to substandard conditions.

Description

Advisory Panel and Strategies:

The bill creates a Supported Housing Advisory Panel to advise the government and local authorities on supported exempt accommodation. Local housing authorities must conduct reviews and publish five-yearly strategies for supported housing in their districts, considering availability and needs.

National Standards and Licensing:

The Secretary of State can set national standards for supported housing. The bill allows for the introduction of licensing regulations for supported exempt accommodation, enabling local authorities to grant licenses, enforce standards, and take action against non-compliance. This includes the ability to set fees to cover the costs of licensing. The bill also allows for the creation of criminal offenses for non-compliance.

Homelessness and Information Sharing:

The bill amends the definition of "intentionally homeless" to exclude those leaving substandard supported exempt accommodation. Regulations will govern the sharing of relevant information between various bodies, including local authorities, registered social housing providers, and the Regulator of Social Housing.

Planning and Other Provisions:

A review will be undertaken to assess the impact of licensing on premises used for supported accommodation. The bill includes clauses defining "supported exempt accommodation" (including resettlement places, managed properties, refuges, and local authority hostels) and providing for the interpretation of various terms.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify exact figures for government spending. However, it anticipates costs associated with the establishment and operation of the Supported Housing Advisory Panel, the development and implementation of local strategies, and the enforcement of licensing regulations. Additional resources may also be required for information sharing and data management.

Groups Affected

• Residents of supported exempt accommodation: Potentially positive impact through improved standards and protection from substandard housing.
• Providers of supported exempt accommodation: Subject to new licensing requirements, potentially increased costs and compliance burdens.
• Local housing authorities: New responsibilities for developing strategies, licensing, and enforcement. Increased workload and potential costs.
• Social services authorities: Roles in assisting local housing authorities with strategy development.
• Registered providers of social housing and charities: Impact related to licensing and information sharing requirements.
• Government: Financial implications related to advisory panel, regulatory bodies and potential support for local authorities.

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