A new plan approved by Cabinet on Wednesday 18 February will strengthen how Thurrock Council supports residents who are at risk of homelessness, helping to provide a more consistent, timely, and effective service.
In recent years the council has experienced increasing pressure within its homelessness service, reflected particularly in the rising number of households requiring temporary accommodation. This has created significant operational and financial challenges, as well as increased demand for early support and prevention work.
To address this, the council has developed a comprehensive Housing Solutions Improvement Plan, which focuses on strengthening service delivery, improving processes, and ensuring residents receive support earlier to prevent housing crises wherever possible.
The plan will enhance oversight of temporary accommodation, improve case management, and help staff support residents to move on more quickly and sustainably into suitable long-term housing.
A key focus of the plan is prevention. By investing in earlier intervention and closer partnership working, the council aims to support residents sooner, reducing the likelihood that they will face homelessness and helping to minimise the need for temporary accommodation.
Cllr Mark Hooper, Cabinet member for Health and Well-being and Social Housing, said: “Homelessness is complex and often linked to a range of wider challenges beyond housing alone. This plan reinforces our commitment to working together across services and with partners to prevent homelessness wherever possible and to support residents who need our help.
“It provides clearer direction and stronger tools for staff so they can deliver a more consistent and proactive service, ensuring residents receive the right support at the right time.
“By focusing on prevention and improving how we manage temporary accommodation, we can achieve better outcomes for residents while also reducing long-term costs for the council.”