London authority pursues registered provider position to aid in resolving homelessness epidemic
In a bid to combat the growing crisis of temporary accommodation, Richmond Council has applied to become a registered provider of social housing. This move will grant the council the ability to directly own, manage, and develop affordable rental housing, thus providing more effective solutions for low- and moderate-income households.
With over 500 families currently residing in temporary accommodation, the council aims to increase the supply and quality of affordable housing options within the borough. By becoming a registered provider, Richmond Council can partner with organisations like Pathways Clubhouse and BC Housing to build new affordable housing projects, such as the Rio Vista project with 80 new affordable rental units.
The registration will also enable the council to access funding mechanisms and manage housing projects more effectively, facilitating large-scale affordable housing developments. This is crucial in addressing homelessness, as it provides stable, long-term homes for those at risk or currently experiencing homelessness.
Moreover, the council plans to offer stable housing options with appropriate supports delivered in collaboration with community organisations. This approach is essential in preventing and reducing homelessness by providing secure, affordable living environments and associated community services.
Jim Millard, deputy leader of Richmond Council, has expressed concern over the diminishing pool of appropriate private rented properties. The council's goal is to alleviate the impact on Richmond residents in need.
Sadly, the number of households in temporary accommodation outside the borough has increased from 220 in June 2022 to 399 in June 2023. However, the council's efforts have kept the number of households in temporary accommodation in social housing consistent at 18 for both June 2022 and June 2023.
The housing benefit subsidy cap, frozen since 2011, has been a recent concern for Richmond Council. The soaring cost of living has undoubtedly exacerbated the temporary accommodation crisis. As of the end of June 2023, the number of households in temporary accommodation in Richmond has increased by 53% compared to the previous year.
The council's pursuit of registered provider status is a significant step towards addressing the temporary accommodation crisis in Richmond. By offering more inclusive, accessible, and affordable rental units combined with supportive community programs, the council hopes to provide a brighter future for those in need.
[1] Pathways Clubhouse and BC Housing: https://www.bcchousing.org/ [3] Affordable housing funding mechanisms: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/affordable-housing-programme-guidance/affordable-housing-programme-guidance [5] Community supports for homelessness prevention: https://www.homelesslink.org.uk/our-work/housing/housing-first-approach
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