🗓 Monday, 3 March 2025
Southend-on-Sea City Council is inviting residents, landlords, and businesses to share their views on how private rented housing can be used to help households move out of homelessness.
Why is this important?
The number of homeless households in temporary accommodation (TA) is at a record high. The council has a legal duty to provide TA for some households experiencing homelessness until settled housing becomes available. However, temporary housing—such as Bed & Breakfast-style accommodation without cooking facilities—can be costly and negatively impact people’s wellbeing.
While the council is working to increase social and affordable housing, it is also seeking feedback on a proposed policy to expand the use of suitable private rented accommodation to provide more stable housing options.
Key Elements of the Proposed Policy:
✅ Ending the main homelessness duty with an offer of suitable, affordable private rented accommodation, even if the applicant prefers social housing.
✅ Prioritising settled accommodation within Southend-on-Sea, but considering Rochford and Castle Point if housing in Southend is unavailable within set timeframes.
✅ Ensuring no household is placed beyond Rochford or Castle Point unless the applicant requests an out-of-area move.
✅ Considering unique circumstances—private rented housing will not be appropriate or affordable for everyone.
A Message from Cllr Anne Jones
Cllr Anne Jones, cabinet member for planning and housing, said:
“No one should have to spend months, sometimes years, in temporary accommodation, especially families with young children. We know that staying in unsuitable housing, like bed and breakfasts without cooking facilities, takes a huge toll on people’s wellbeing.
It’s also incredibly costly for both the Council and taxpayers. The longer people remain in temporary accommodation, the more pressure it puts on public funds that could be better used to provide long-term housing solutions.
We’re working hard to increase social housing, but we must also be realistic—there simply isn’t enough for everyone who needs it. That’s why we want to make better use of private rented housing, to help people move into settled homes more quickly.
This isn’t just about policies and procedures; it’s about real people and their futures. We need your views to make sure we get it right. I encourage everyone to take part in the consultation and help shape how we support those facing homelessness in our city.”
Have Your Say!
The consultation is now live and runs until Tuesday, 29 April 2025, at 5pm.
📢 Open to: Residents, landlords, and other interested parties.
📝 Take part in the survey here:
👉 Private Sector Discharge of Duty Policy – Consultation | Your Say Southend