NHF response to the government's Homelessness Strategy

In response to the government's Homelessness Strategy, Kate Henderson, Chief Executive of the National Housing Federation and member of the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Expert Group, said:

"With record numbers of families and children homeless and growing up in temporary accommodation, the government’s homelessness strategy is an important recognition of the urgency of the crisis facing this country. Housing associations work tirelessly to support people experiencing homelessness and will continue to work alongside other public bodies with the collective ambition needed to solve this crisis. We will also work in partnership with the government to build the social homes needed to address the long-term root causes of homelessness.

“We’re pleased the government has recognised the role of supported housing in reducing homelessness by dedicating funding to support some of those with the most complex needs. However, not-for-profit supported housing providers have faced significant cuts to funding for support services, despite increasing costs, and demand for their services increasing. The country now faces a significant shortfall of supported homes.

“A financially viable and sustainable supported housing sector is integral to solving this crisis. The sector is committed to working in partnership with the government to build on the opportunities this strategy provides and find solutions to the challenges facing supported housing providers so that they’re able to fulfil their role in reducing homelessness and help end it for good."