URL: https://democracy.stratford.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4138

Decision Maker: Head of Housing, Revenues and Customer Services

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: That the District Council award through grant funding £108,593 to Citizens Advice South Warwickshire for the enhanced Court Desk Worker service for 26-27.   Stratford-on-Avon District Council has previously commissioned Citizens Advice South Warwickshire (CASW) to deliver the Court Desk Worker service to assist residents in the district when faced with possession orders from landlords which could lead to homelessness without appropriate support and representation.   The Court Desk Worker service represents clients in court during possession hearings, runs pre-court surgeries for tenants, supports access to other specialist services to tackle other issues clients face, supports clients to negotiate sustainable mortgage or rent payment plans with landlords and lenders. This service is provided to residents free of charge.   Last year Orbit gave notice on the Tenancy Intervention Officer contract which was a key role in working alongside the Court Desk Worker. This meant the pre-work, previously carried out by the Tenancy Intervention Officer before referring to the Court Desk Worker, was no longer being done. Additional resource was directed to the Court Desk Worker service to meet this gap which has proved beneficial.   With the additional capacity the outputs were increased whilst also acknowledging the increased demand from more residents facing eviction. From the Quarter 3 25/26 report, the Court Desk Worker service has supported 279 clients against a target for the year of 330 (85%), prevented 201 cases of residents threatened with homelessness against a target of 260 (77%) and supported clients with a £730,800 income gain (arrears addressed, debt managed/ written off/ benefit application, etc) against a target of £600k (122%). This has meant 201 residents/ families have been able to remain in their homes which prevents a lot of work/ support by SDC colleagues if they must be managed as homeless. Also, importantly it prevents significant negative impact on the household which can mean long term challenges from being displaced.   CASW is a charity operating within the district delivering free confidential and impartial advice on a range of subjects including housing, benefits, debt, fuel poverty, education, law & rights and health. Their help is available to everyone in the community.   CASW is a key partner, and their activities are aligned to the Growing Opportunities Plan 2026-29.   The required amount of £108,593 pa will be funded in the following way:   £38,000 is assigned to CASW court desk work from the core budget.   £70,593 will be allocated from the Homeless Prevention Grant.   Several factors have been taken into account and the following has been considered in reaching this decision:   Whether the budget allows for these grant awards. Whether the organisation is appropriately qualified to undertake this work. Whether these organisations delivered this work within the district and effectively with the 2025/26 award. Whether this work is aligned with the Growing Opportunities and Council Plans. Whether a need exists for this activity and spending.   The answer to all these questions is ‘yes’.  

Date of Decision: March 11, 2026