Chester housing trust joins forces with 100 other associations to tackle region’s homeless problem

Dec 11 2009 Chester Chronicle

CHESTER & District Housing Trust (CDHT) has joined forces with more than 100 other housing associations in the North West to make a pledge to tackle homelessness in the region.

A set of commitments have been launched this week, in the run up to Christmas, a time of year when it seems even more shocking that people can be homeless in our society. David Shaw, Assistant Director - Customer & Housing Access at CDHT was invited to speak at the launch.

The report, The North West’s housing associations - our commitments to tackling homelessness, reveals there are simply not enough homes in the region. Waiting lists for a social home increased 10% in 2008 to 234,500 households, and have grown by over 50% in the last five years – the biggest rise in the country. This is set to increase further due to the economic downturn unless action is taken.

CDHT is one of over 100 housing associations who have already signed up to the commitments. Collectively they manage over 450,000 homes.

The purpose of the commitments are to ensure housing associations and local authorities work together to deliver key services, provide support and offer solutions to help tackle the tragedy of homelessness. The report identifies factor such as worklessness, financial exclusion, anti-social behaviour and low educational attainment which all increase the risk of homelessness.

The aim of the commitments are to:

Help people remain in their homes

Tackle the factors that make people more likely to become homeless

Help people who have become homeless get the support they need

Address the fundamental shortage of homes.

Housing associations in the region are already helping tackle homelessness in many ways. The report included a survey of associations which found that:

74% provide access to training to increase the chances of employment for their tenants

76% have developed links with local credit unions and now tenants and residents of over 240,000 properties can access affordable credit

98% of associations offer their tenants access to a housing advice service to help maintain their tenancy

The 100+ associations involved have committed to work closely with local authorities and develop a homelessness strategy and action plan, which will reduce homelessness amongst their tenants and in the wider community, and offer help to those who do loose their homes.

Su Bramley, Deputy Chief Executive of CDHT said;

“The commitment of such a large number of North West housing associations just shows what can be achieved when organisations come together. CDHT’s role as a principal landlord, developer, support provider and community employer across Cheshire West & Chester highlights the real differences which we can all have on the lives of our most vulnerable customers.”

Sharon Morris, Housing Options & Pathways Manager at CDHT added;

“CDHT has supported over 1,000 customers over the last 12 months who have received help, support and new opportunities when faced with homelessness. Our specialist teams provide real choice, advice and a helping hand when you need it most. Should we be able to help, please ask for a member of our Housing Options & Pathways Team, based in our city centre location or call freephone 08081007701.”

Sallie Bridgen, National Housing Federation North West Regional Manager said:

“Homelessness has a devastating impact on individuals, families and communities. Housing associations are working in communities to tackle issues such as worklessness, financial exclusion and anti-social behaviour which all contribute to homelessness.

“Our report highlights the great work housing associations are already doing, and the commitments demonstrate their ongoing drive to tackle this issue.

“We are delighted CDHT has made this commitment to tackle homelessness.”