Enfield Council’s Approach to the Housing and Homelessness Crisis

Joanne Drew, Strategic Director of Housing and Regeneration at Enfield Council and Co-Chair of the London Housing Directors Group, joined us at our national Homelessness Conference 2024. Joanne highlighted ongoing efforts to tackle the housing and homelessness crisis at both local and city-wide levels. A total of 4,118 homeless people were counted between January and March 2024, rising by a third in just a year (Big Issue). This period of extreme challenge demands adaptation and extensive collaboration among local authorities. Her presentation is available to watch above, with a full summary below.

The Extent of the Crisis

London’s homelessness issue is significant, with 60% of England’s temporary accommodation being used in the capital. High property costs exacerbate the problem, making it an expensive challenge for local authorities. For instance, one borough faced a £50 million overspend last year due to rising homelessness and market costs. The impact on Londoners is severe, with one in 23 children being homeless and residing in temporary accommodation (London Councils)​.

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A New Agenda for the Parliament

The London Housing Directors Group, hosted by the cross-party organisation London Councils, has developed an agenda for the new parliament that prioritises housing. Inspired by a rights-based approach to housing, they are advocating for whole-system leadership to drive fundamental changes.

Local Challenges in Enfield

In Enfield, a sharp rise in households seeking support has been observed, from 200 per month post-pandemic to over 500 now. This increase has put severe pressure on staffing and financial resources. Across London, the housing market varies significantly, with different levels of private rented accommodation, council housing, and affordability affecting homelessness rates and available accommodation (GOV.UK)​.

Challenges from the Private Rented Sector

The private rented sector presents additional challenges, with many landlords issuing eviction notices, thereby reducing the supply of housing for low-income residents. Public sector organisations, such as prisons and hospitals, are also contributing to the pressure on homelessness services.

System-Wide Approach

The group’s system-wide approach includes mapping and understanding trends, sharing data, and working with partners like Citizens Advice and Local Motion. Substantial changes have been made to the homelessness service, and a prevention partnership board has been established to share information and solve problems collectively.

Future Demands and Strategies

Looking ahead, an increased demand from older people in the private rented sector is anticipated as they retire and struggle to afford rising rents. Local authorities are now focusing on their statutory duties and have adopted a national placement policy due to the lack of affordable housing in London. The aim is to support relocations to more affordable areas and move away from nightly paid accommodation to those under their control (Shelter England)​.

Collaborative Efforts

Partnerships with organisations like Beam are helping residents find employment and resettle. Collaboration opportunities include focusing on accommodation and affordable housing solutions, making current housing more affordable, and supporting prevention efforts.

Realistic Approaches and Future Outlook

It is crucial to be realistic about the available housing and its affordability. The housing market is expected to remain challenging, with incomes rising slower than rental costs. Local authorities, alongside other statutory duty holders, must think differently about responding to the homelessness crisis.

Addressing London’s housing and homelessness crisis requires a collaborative and innovative approach, focusing on both immediate needs and long-term solutions. The London Housing Directors Group continues to advocate for a comprehensive strategy to meet these challenges.

This was presented at our National Homelessness Event 2023. To see more of the latest insights like this, check out our latest safeguarding conference below.

Delegate will receive:

• The latest updates and guidance on supporting vulnerable tenants from leading experts across the housing sector.
• Engage with a range of best practice case studies showcasing strategies to protect vulnerable tenants and improve service provision.
• Topics covered will include guidance on supporting tenants with mental health issues and dementia, engaging with vulnerable tenants and opening pathways to support amid the cost-of-living crisis.
• Gain the opportunity to network with a range of senior colleagues working to improve outcomes for vulnerable tenants.
• CPD points towards your yearly quota