Council consults on strategy to prevent homelessness and rough sleeping

The Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2025-2029 builds on the previous work the council has undertaken in these areas while adapting to national and local changes in the housing environment that have taken place since the previous strategy.

Like many boroughs, Welwyn Hatfield faces rising homelessness driven by factors such as high housing demand, evictions, the impact of Covid-19 and cost-of-living pressures.

The new strategy responds to recent changes in government policy that have placed greater emphasis on renters’ rights, increased provision of affordable homes, and improved housing standards. It also takes account of feedback provided by residents, partners and staff members.

View the strategy and respond to the consultation.

The strategy has four main objectives:

• To eradicate rough sleeping within the borough by providing outreach engagement for all rough sleepers, expanded partnership working, and increased ‘move-on’ options and support.
• The proactive prevention and relief of homelessness, including through collaboration on prevention protocols with registered social landlords and supported housing providers so that eviction is always a last resort, and support programs to build residents’ resilience and self-sufficiency.
• To maximise the efficiency of our services by identifying and applying for new funding streams and resources, developing public education campaigns, and improving signposting to support services.
• To enhance housing options to meet residents’ needs by increasing the supply of temporary accommodation through council-led redevelopment projects and improving housing pathways for vulnerable groups such as care leavers, people discharged from hospital and those with mental health issues.

Councillor Gemma Moore, Executive Member for Housing, said:

“As a council that puts the community at its heart, we are determined to prevent homelessness and ensure everyone has access to good-quality housing.

“This will require sustained efforts from the council and our partners to increase the supply of homes and provide crucial support for those in need.

“Having an up-to-date strategy is key to achieving these goals, and I would like to encourage as many people as possible to provide feedback through our consultation.”

The consultation will close on Friday 4 July.