To receive the report
Minutes:
Background:
· A summary was provided to the Committee and background provided on how the scheme impacted on meeting housing needs across Powys.
· The Portfolio Holder expressed that a robust policy was in place for officers to make informed decisions despite the unprecedented demand.
Points raised by the Committee:
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Responses received from Officers or Cabinet Members: |
Concerns were raised that even though priority needs were being identified, accommodation was not available.
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200 empty homes within the council portfolio were confirmed and explained that several properties were planned for demolition.
Officers would provide more detail and numbers of empty properties within partner groups and the community housing sector for the Committee. |
It was asked how long a void process would take to achieve a tenant moving in. |
Turnaround times for voids including historical empty properties was 21 weeks, since April 2023 it had reduced to 12 weeks demonstrating efficiency within Council Services. |
A question was raised on how support was provided to those without online facilities.
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Wherever possible, self-service online was encouraged, however an application could be carried out over the phone, or an officer visit was possible. |
It was asked if the shortest and longest waiting times for homes could be provided to the Committee for more understanding. |
Officers would feedback on the range of times taken on average waiting times for each band. |
It was asked if the council was ambitious enough to look into alternative accommodation methods e.g. office blocks. |
The Portfolio Holder explained that the service was determined to increase the number of properties, however best value for tenants was the highest priority and costs must be considered. Corporate properties had been explored, without any viable options to date. |
It was asked if the support mechanism from other agencies could be explained.
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Reassurance was provided to the Committee that regular multi agency meetings and wider organisations were held. Awareness was raised through the Homes in Powys allocation policy along with regular thorough checks. |
Concerns were raised around the length of time people were waiting for a home with only 5000 homes and 4000 people/families on the waiting list. |
The Portfolio Holder explained that high demand areas had less turnover and therefore the demand remains high. Officers offer the search to be widened for accommodation needs. It was emphasised that the waiting list was actively managed to review housing needs and that people were in the correct banding. |
Concerns were raised that with 122 temporary units becoming permanent homes, was the service actively seeking a further 122 units. |
45 households were currently in Bed and Breakfast accommodation with a further 14 in the private rented sector and with the need increasing units are constantly being sought. |
Was the number of homelessness increasing. |
The number of homeless presentations were increasing, driven by various elements including the economy, legislation changes, and wider needs, and reflected in the Rapid Housing Transition Plan. Prevention rates had improved as the key intention was to avoid homelessness. |
Did the same regulations and standards apply for temporary accommodation to permanent housing. |
It was confirmed that the standard of the accommodation must meet housing quality standards with white goods also being provided if needed. |
·The Committee agreed that an incredibly detailed report had been produced.
·The band priorities were explained within the presentation with additional clarity from officers.
·The Committee were reassured that work progresses at pace and all considerations were met.
·It was asked if rural wards with family care needs (members moving to help and support family needs) could be considered to help both the family and to elevate pressure on services.
Resolved: The Homes in Powys Overview be noted.
Supporting documents: