The Housing Committee met to discuss the development of a new Supported Housing Strategy for Redbridge. The committee received a presentation outlining the statutory requirement to produce this strategy by March 2027, detailing the different types of supported housing and the projected increases in demand. Councillors engaged in a detailed discussion, raising questions about data availability, consultation methods, and the financial implications of the strategy.

Supported Housing Strategy Development

The primary focus of the meeting was the development of Redbridge's Supported Housing Strategy, a statutory requirement stemming from the Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act 2023. Andrew Billany, Director of Housing, and Ben Tomlinson, Head of Housing Strategy, Quality and Assurance, presented the framework for this strategy, which aims to ensure that residents requiring supported housing can access safe, high-quality homes and personalised support.

The strategy will address three main categories of supported housing:

• Short-term and transitional housing: This includes provision for those experiencing homelessness, care leavers moving on, domestic abuse refuges, and hostels and resettlement services.
• Working-age disabled adults: This category covers individuals with mental health issues, learning disabilities, autism, and physical or sensory disabilities who require support to live independently.
• Older people: This encompasses sheltered housing, extra care housing, and accommodation for those aged 55 and over, with a focus on enabling independence as care needs evolve.

The officers highlighted that the population of Redbridge is projected to increase, with a significant rise in the older demographic, placing greater demand on supported housing services. The strategy aims to create a coherent, needs-led approach across these different markets and pathways.

The committee was informed that a formal consultation period would commence shortly, following Cabinet approval in October. The strategy is due for publication by March 2027.

Councillors raised several key points and questions during the discussion:

• Data and Demand: Councillor Syeda Ferdause Pasha and Councillor Muhammed Javed highlighted concerns about the lack of detailed ward-level data on supported housing provision and demand. They stressed the importance of having this information to understand local pressures and to ensure realistic planning. Officers acknowledged this gap and stated that a specialist provider would be commissioned to conduct a thorough needs assessment to gather more granular data.
• Consultation and Engagement: A significant portion of the discussion revolved around how to effectively consult with residents, particularly vulnerable groups. Councillors emphasised the need for accessible communication methods beyond online platforms, including outreach to older residents, those with limited English, and individuals who may not be able to attend focus groups. Officers outlined a multi-modal approach, including a dedicated consultation website, forums, focus groups, and outreach through existing services and the voluntary sector. A workshop for committee members is planned for November to further inform the consultation process.
• Financial Implications: Councillor Kamal Hussain Qureshi raised concerns about the cost of supported housing and whether additional funding would be available or if residents would bear the brunt. Officers indicated that while some government funding might be available for specific areas like rough sleeping, the strategy would focus on developing affordable options through appropriate rent and service charges, and exploring grant opportunities.
• Empty Properties and Asset Utilisation: Councillor Harminder Singh Bal inquired about the potential use of empty buildings for supported housing to expedite provision. Officers confirmed that a strategic asset review was underway to identify opportunities for utilising council-owned and private empty properties for various housing needs, including supported housing.
• Prevention and Early Intervention: The importance of preventative measures, such as home adaptations and floating support, was stressed by Councillor Niamh Victoria Atkins to help older people and those with disabilities remain independent in their own homes for longer. Officers confirmed that the council actively promotes such measures, including through the Disabled Facilities Grant.
• Inter-departmental Collaboration: It was clarified that the Supported Housing Strategy cuts across multiple council departments, including children's social care, adult social care, and public health, with a supported housing oversight board convened to ensure coordinated working.
• Strategy Review and Accountability: The strategy is intended to run for five years, with annual reviews to track progress and update actions. The accountability of the council, providers, and partners was also discussed, with a commitment to consider the impact of legislation such as the Renters Act.

The committee was asked to provide a clear steer on the strategy's priorities, consultation questions, and desired outcomes to help refine the consultation materials and inform the final strategy. The next meeting of the Housing Committee is scheduled for 13 January 2027.