Housing Ask 3

Ensure that temporary accommodation is suitable, safe and of good quality. We are asking that local authorities commit to minimum standards and develop a coordinated framework for maintaining and managing temporary accommodation. Families should be supported throughout their placement in temporary accommodation and be supported in making complaints when relevant. Local authorities must ensure that housing departments and social services never end or threaten to end accommodation through a homelessness or child in need duty without a clear plan for how a child will be accommodated.

Why?

Temporary accommodation residents from across the London Borough of Hackney came together to talk about their experiences, and what changes they want to see. Shelter London, working in partnership with Healthwatch Hackney NHS Community Voice, engaged with these residents in a listening campaign, to capture these stories and produce findings which both paint a picture of life in temporary accommodation, and show what needs to change. Residents put together 5 key recommendations for the local authority and landlords, which they hope will improve the lives of all. Read their report below to find out more.