Labour must act quickly on 'monumental challenge' of tackling homelessness crisis

The homelessness figures out today make for incredibly sombre reading – with a 12.3% rise in households living in temporary accommodation since last year, we are facing an unprecedented emergency. As Angela Rayner said last week, we are in a homelessness crisis, and it is the Tories that left us in this mess.

As Labour steps into power, it is clear it faces a monumental challenge when it comes to tackling the issue and finally putting an end to homelessness. The urgency is underscored by the sobering reality of over 151,000 children in temporary accommodation, rough sleeping reaching pre-pandemic heights, and councils struggling under the pressure of the costs of homelessness.

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The Labour government needs to act quickly, every child, family or individual left either sleeping rough, sofa surfing or stuck indefinitely in unsuitable and unsafe temporary accommodation, are living through a trauma that will never leave them.

A critical component of solving the issue is of course tackling the housing supply shortage. With the government pledging to build 1.5 million houses over the next five years, it is clear they are very serious about tackling the problem.

However, with the financial strain on councils, which are struggling with the exorbitant cost of temporary accommodation. And with the many individuals and families, including children, who are living in inadequate conditions such as bed and breakfasts, which not only impacts their physical and mental health but damages their educational attainment. Labour must also implement immediate measures to alleviate the plight of those currently suffering.

The private rented sector, characterised by rampant rent increases and insecure tenancies, is a significant contributor to the homelessness crisis. Labour must get this sector back under control to prevent further instability.

Labour has committed to a Renters’ Rights Bill, which will end no-fault evictions and extend a series of building safety rules for social tenants to private renters. This will help so many struggling currently, however we do need to be bold in our approach to supporting those in the private rented sector. Too many are left with rents they can’t afford, having to choose between rent or food. Despite the previous government caving to pressure last year and restoring local housing allowance (LHA) to the 30^th percentile, many argue that LHA rates are still insufficient in many parts of the country. It is imperative the new government continue to look at this whilst we build the homes we need.

Homelessness is not merely about lacking a roof over one’s head. It often stems from complex, trauma-related issues requiring a holistic, trauma-informed approach. Individuals who have experienced significant trauma frequently have intricate support needs. Labour’s strategy should encompass mental health services, addiction support, and tailored programs for specific vulnerable groups such as domestic abuse survivors, young people leaving care, and ex-offenders.

Labour has already committed to a cross-departmental unit with the aim of ending homelessness, which was incredibly welcome news. It is simply not possible to tackle the issue in the current government silos. This unit must also lay out a comprehensive, trauma informed and led strategy spearheaded by a dedicated taskforce comprised of experts from the sector. This taskforce must be empowered with resources and a clear mandate to drive an ambitious agenda, ensuring robust, multi-faceted implementation across the government.

Labour can draw inspiration from its past successes. The last Labour government, with initiatives like the Rough Sleepers Unit, achieved remarkable reductions in rough sleeping and homelessness, even amidst the economic turmoil of the 2008 financial crisis. The lessons learned from these initiatives should guide the new government’s approach, ensuring that proven strategies are adapted to current challenges.

It goes without saying that when it comes to homelessness, prevention is key. Labour must implement a robust homelessness prevention strategy, informed by improved data collection and analysis. Identifying those at risk early and providing necessary support can prevent many from falling into homelessness – therefore preventing another person having to suffer the horror and pain of homelessness.

The homelessness crisis is a complex, multifaceted issue that requires a bold, comprehensive approach from the current Labour government. Immediate relief measures, long-term housing strategies, and a comprehensive, trauma-informed approach are essential. By learning from past successes, investing in solutions, and prioritising early intervention and prevention, Labour can make significant strides in tackling homelessness.

These first 24 months will be critical. Our Labour government must be bold, decisive, and compassionate to provide the stability and security that so many across the country so desperately need.

Paula Barker is the MP for Liverpool Wavertree and a former shadow homelessness minister.

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