URL: https://democracy.canterbury.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1730

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: The Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning introduced the report that seeks permission to consult on the Draft Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2026-2030.    There were two options for Cabinet to consider within the report:    1. To resolve that consultation is carried out on the draft Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2026-2030 for a 12 week period from 10 June 2026 to 2 September 2026.     2. Require amendments to the Draft Homelessness and Rough Sleeper Strategy 2026 2030 prior to consultation.    The Cabinet discussed the report, and the following points were made:    Cabinet noted the progress that had been made in ensuring that no families were placed in bed and breakfast accommodation as temporary accommodation.  It was raised that consultation should be far reaching and then confirmed that consultation would take place with schools, health services and the voluntary and community sector, and that efforts would be made to seek the views of children and young people.  Feedback had shown cross party support for this strategy.  Canterbury had the highest rate of care leavers in Kent, which highlighted the need to engage directly with young people.  It was suggested that further information on benchmarking should be included.  The strategy was being considered alongside the Housing Strategy, including areas such as the duty to refer. Cabinet discussed how the strategy could be linked to a longer-term partnership framework to support delivery, including how different organisations would be held to account. The first workshop with the strategic partnership was due to take place on Friday.  In response to a question regarding how expectations would be managed, it was explained that a strong communications plan would accompany the strategy, alongside key performance indicators and accountability for delivery.  It was suggested that consideration should be given to how information about homelessness referrals is communicated to the public and we should make use of our public offices and signage.  It was suggested that a definition of homelessness should be included within the document.    It was then proposed, seconded and when put to a recorded vote RESOLVED that:    That consultation is carried out on the draft Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2026-2030 for a 12-week period from 10 June 2026 to 2 September 2026.    Record of the voting:  For (6): Baldock, Charlotte Cornell ,Chris Cornell, Dawkins, Hazleton and Nolan.  Against (0): None  Abstained (0): None    Reason for the decision: to allow us to meet our statutory requirements and to ensure that the final strategy reflects best practice and meets the needs of our customers.   

Date of Decision: June 9, 2026