This item was presented by the Corporate Director of Adults, Housing and Health. This subject came before Housing Overview & Scrutiny Committee earlier in the year and at the request from the Chair of the Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 20 February 2018, a review was to be undertaken to allow Officers time to carry out an in-depth survey on 18 cases of homelessness as a result of domestic abuse and single applicants suffering with mental health issues.

There had been room for improvement within the services, although there had been positive feedback and a reduced number of residents placed in temporary accommodation.

Councillor Spillman agreed there had been an improvement and welcomed the report however he felt there needed to be procedures in place to ensure future errors did not reoccur.

Councillor Spillman recommended a review of the findings of the report and when the report is completed to ensure adequate training for staff members is implemented as it would be beneficial to ensure they are dealing with customers effectively and appropriately.

It was recommended by the Chair and Committee Members for this item to be presented back to Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee in 6 months. 

Councillor Redsell agreed with the previous statement. She felt front line staff were in danger on a daily basis. The Authority need to ensure there is safeguarding in place for staff whilst at work. Councillor Redsell wanted clarity around the 1,395 applications that were received according to page 25.

Director of Adults, Housing and Health will gather the information and share with the Members following the Committee meeting. There was a discussion around the refurbishment of the reception area and the need for more security, although the current situation was interim and the work will be completed in around 8 weeks.

Councillor Baldwin highlighted that residents request for call backs from the homeless department which were not happening. Interim Assistant Director of Housing explained there had been some issues with temporary members of staff. However due to a new telephone recording system and posts being filled with permanent employees the issues continued to be resolved. There were some difficulties with homeless officers attempting to contact residents but failing due to many residents on pay as you go telephones and there being no opportunity to leave voicemails.

Councillor Spillman shared his concerns about moving vulnerable residents and families into temporary accommodations outside of the Borough. This could put them in danger meaning they may be targeted by criminals or worse, being sexually exploited. There needs to be more safeguarding in place to ensure this did not happen.

Councillor Redsell felt, most Councillors are aware of the “hotspots” in Thurrock whereas Officers are less aware. 

Director of Adults, Housing and Health clarified the investigations on moving families into temporary accommodation is limited and if they were at risk of harm they would be removed immediately.

RESOLVED the Committee:

1.1         Commented on and noted the analysis of the specific cases

1.2          

1.3         Commented on and noted the common themes highlighted in the report

1.4         Commented on and noted the improvements already underway with the homelessness service.

1.5         Commented on and noted the report and review the report in October 2018.

Commented on and noted the importance of ensuring staff members are kept safeguarded, ensure they receive adequate training.