Plans to prevent homelessness in Brighton as costs skyrocket
The council's expecting to spend an extra £11 million on temporary accommodation this year
More work's being done to stop people becoming homeless in Brighton and Hove, as councillors look to tackle a rising temporary accommodation bill.
It's as costs are predicted to rise by £11 million over the next year due to rising demand and expensive temporary housing - such as B&Bs.
The council has already requested extra financial help from the government as it looks to deal with costs - but insists it's a "temporary measure".
A fresh budget is now proposing a major reform program aimed at reducing reliance on nightly placements and enhancing support for those at risk of homelessness.
The focus will be on increasing access to affordable temporary accommodation, reducing unit costs, strengthening prevention work, and facilitating quicker transitions to stable long-term housing.
The measures are expected to deliver over £5 million in savings while improving resident outcomes.
Councillor Jacob Taylor, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and City Regeneration, said:
“This is not just about financial management. It is about ensuring people can stay in the city they call home, close to their families, schools and support networks.
“No one should have to move miles away because the system is under strain.
“We are investing in new social homes, reducing our reliance on expensive private rentals, and ensuring families have safe, stable places to live.
This budget puts housing first and helps to fix a system that has been failing residents.
“Our proposals set out a clear and determined plan to increase the supply of affordable homes and support people into long term stability.
"We are asking the government to work with us, because tackling the housing crisis and the budget must go hand in hand.”
The council continues to call on government for greater flexibility around borrowing and the use of resources to accelerate the delivery of affordable homes and reduce reliance on emergency accommodation.
The final budget will be considered by councillors later in February.