By Local Democracy Reporter
Steve Shaw
THE chief executive of a homeless charity has called it “worrying” that councils like Thurrock are unable to find homes for vulnerable families.
Most of the people moved out of Thurrock and placed in temporary accommodation end up in Southend, which last year received 63 families from the borough.
The national homeless prevention charity Shelter describes this type of accommodation as ranging from flats and hostels to bed and breakfast accommodation where families might share one room with no kitchen.
While Thurrock remains responsible for securing permanent housing for these families, the provision of services such as schooling, health and social care is likely to end up being the responsibility their new town.
Jackie Bliss, chief executive of Southend homeless charity HARP, said: “It is a worrying time when boroughs do not have enough accommodation for their families to reside safely, but at HARP we believe everyone deserves a home.
“This is not just a local issue, the majority of people facing homelessness across the country are in temporary accommodation or sofa surfing.
“Whilst we advocate homelessness prevention where this is not possible it is vital to take steps to ensure families are found safe accommodation within the community. Unfortunately, for some boroughs this may mean having to accommodate people in other areas.”
