As part of a comprehensive programme addressing housing need and homelessness, Havant Borough Council has undertaken an inspiring trial supporting those in temporary accommodation to secure permanent housing.
The council is working in partnership with BEAM - a charity that assist the homeless through vocational training and support. The one-year trial project covers two key areas:
- Assisting people in temporary accommodation find a permanent and sustainable home by creating a fund-raising campaign to pay for their rental deposit, first month's rent, moving van and furniture. The organisation also supports individuals to sustain their tenancies for 12 months after they first move into a property.
- Helping Ukrainian people to find employment as they settle into homes in the borough.
This exciting housing project is just one of many the council is involved in. For example, the council also secures supported accommodation for vulnerable adults by working closely with the charity Hope into Action. The council’s partnership approach represents one of the elements identified in the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities’ positive assessment of the council’s housing function and the progress it continues to make.
Councillor Alex Rennie - Leader of Havant Borough Council - said "Safe, quality housing is a fundamental right for our residents, and I'm delighted to see how the council not only understands the many nuances that can impact on people securing a home but is also actively working in multiple partnerships, addressing specific problems for specific audiences.
I'm not the only one who recognises the efforts of the council on the housing front; I am happy to say that even central government appreciates the council’s efforts, with a recent Inspection by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities confirming they are happy with the progress the council is making and the plans that it has in place."
For more information on what the council has to offer, visit www.havant.gov.uk/housing-advice-and-homelessness.
For more information on Beam, visit www.beam.org.
For more information on Hope into Action, visit www.portsmouth.hopeintoaction.org.uk.