Agenda item

Report of the Executive Director, Community and Children’s Services.

The Sub-Committee received a report of the Executive Director, Community & Children’s Services, concerning an introduction to the Annual Combined Homelessness and Information Network (CHAIN) report for rough sleeping in 2023–2024.

The following points were noted:

• Officers noted that rough sleeping has increased in the City of London as well as across Greater London. Officers drew Members attention the ‘returner’ cohort for whom there had been notable success during the last year with a steady reduction in accommodated individuals returning to rough sleeping in the Square Mile.
• The success of various support services, including emergency accommodation, mental health support, and substance misuse services was highlighted to Members. It was noted that these services played a crucial role in helping individuals transition from rough sleeping to more stable living conditions.
• Collaboration with partner organisations, such as Thames Reach and Turning Point, was emphasised as a key factor in the success of the rough sleeping strategy. Members were informed that these partnerships enabled a coordinated approach to addressing the needs of rough sleepers.
• However, despite the successes, Members acknowledged ongoing challenges, including the increasing complexity of cases and the need for more affordable housing options. Officers also noted the impact of external factors, such as economic conditions and changes in government policy, on the ability to address rough sleeping effectively.
• A question was raised about the significant increase in COL and the drivers behind it. Officers responded that it is not a unique situation and that the area is well-resourced with outreach teams working shifts every day and evening.
• Members noted the emphasis on the importance of support into long-term accommodation and the quality of work being done.
• Officers highlighted that those rough sleeping are not existing residents but coming from outside, and questioned what can be done as a deterrent.
• Officers pointed out homelessness and rough sleeping is a nationwide issue, not just limited to London, and that collaboration across boroughs is critically important.
• Officers agreed to clarify data relating to private rented sector outcomes and the split between statutory homelessness and rough sleeping.