Homelessness review
Housing authorities are required by legislation (Housing Act 2002 and the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017) to carry out a periodic review of homelessness in their area. The purpose of the review is to determine the extent to which the population in the district is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, assess the likely extent in the future, identify what is currently being done and by whom, and identify what resources are available to prevent and tackle homelessness.
Local housing authorities should use this understanding of homelessness in their area to inform their Homelessness Strategy and they are obliged by legislation to involve partners in this process. In addition, the Homelessness Code of Guidance for local authorities sets out some requirements for a Homelessness Strategy. It should:
- Link to the wider contributory factors of homelessness, such as health, wellbeing, employment, and economic factors.
- Be consistent with other corporate strategies and objectives. Involve partners in implementing the strategic homelessness objectives.
- Have an Action Plan to show how the strategic objectives will be achieved.
- Be monitored and reviewed during the life of the Strategy.