URL: https://democracy.sheffield.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4535

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: 9.1 The Committee considered a report of the Executive Director, Neighbourhood Services seeking approval from the Housing Policy Committee to adopt a 5-year Temporary Accommodation Strategy and Policy.  The report set out why the Strategy and Policy are required and what the key differences would be to the Council’s approach if adopted.     9.2 RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That Housing Policy Committee approves the Temporary Accommodation Strategy and Policy.     9.3 Reasons for Decision     9.3.1 Sheffield faces rising demand for affordable housing, increasing reliance on Temporary Accommodation as a safety net. The draft Temporary Accommodation Strategy outlines how the Council will meet its legal duty while reducing costly, unsuitable options like B&Bs. It focuses on prevention, better property management, and expanding housing options, including rapid rehousing and alternative solutions. The strategy aligns with the Homelessness Prevention and Rough Sleeping Strategy and responds to an independent housing review     9.3.2 The draft Temporary Accommodation Policy sets out a fair and consistent approach to allocating and managing temporary housing. It details how the Council procures and places households in suitable accommodation, including out-of-area placements when needed.     8.4 Alternatives Considered and Rejected     8.4.1 Option 1 – Do nothing: Discounted - Rising demand for Temporary Accommodation, particularly B&B use, has led to unsustainable financial costs and poor outcomes. Inaction would breach statutory guidance and legal duties.     8.4.2 Option 2 – Strategy only, without Policy: Discounted - A Strategy would provide overall direction including initiatives to decrease the use of B&B’s. It would not however give the clear and transparent detail of how Temporary Accommodation will be allocated and managed. This approach would fail to provide the transparency and clarity needed for consistent, lawful Temporary Accommodation allocation especially regarding out-of-area placements.     8.4.3 Preferred Option – Strategy with Policy: Together the documents provide a comprehensive framework with clear priorities and a consistent basis for decision[1]making. They will work together to ensure consistent, accountable, and effective delivery and that our approach aligns with best practices and legal standards.        

Date of Decision: June 19, 2025