Extra £222,000 funding allocated to tackle homelessness in Peterborough
Council plans to use the grant to support households at risk of losing their home
Peterborough City Council will receive an additional £222,000 to help prevent homelessness among households at risk of losing their homes.
The funding comes as part of a £50m Homelessness Prevention Grant announced by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government for local authorities in England. The total allocation for Peterborough, including the ‘top-ups,’ will be £2.81m for 2025/26.
Peterborough City Council plans to use the extra funding to provide financial incentives to landlords and assessed households, covering costs such as deposits, rent in advance, and arrears payments. The council will also continue promoting early engagement and offering advice and guidance through its new operating model for housing and homelessness.
The initiative further aims to address challenges people might face in accessing accommodation, including struggles with substance misuse and mental health.
Demand for social housing in Peterborough exceeded supply by 74% last year, according to the council. Cabinet Member for Housing and Regulatory Services, Cllr Christian Hogg, said the private rental sector remains vital while the council works to increase affordable housing options.
“This funding provides additional tools to support families and individuals whose changing circumstances put them at risk of losing their home,” Cllr Hogg said.
Announcing the grant, Minister of State for Local Government and Homelessness Alison McGovern emphasised the importance of using the funding to support households early in their engagement with homelessness services.
She said the money will be distributed in January 2025 and should focus on ensuring households are assisted at prevention stage rather than relief.
Additionally, the Government plans to introduce the Renters’ Rights Act in May 2026. This will aim to boost security and stability for renters by implementing a series of measures to protect their rights.