HC Deb 10 July 2002 vol 388 cc1002-3W
Ms Buck

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what plans he has to assist local authorities in the implementation of their duties under(a) the Homelessness Act 2002 and (b) Government targets on the reduction of families supported by local authorities in bed and breakfast accommodation. [67498]

Mr. McNulty

A new Homelessness Directorate has been established within my Department to take forward the new approach to tackling homelessness as set out in the Homelessness Directorate's report "More than a roof'. Our specific measures include a £125 million investment in 2002–03 to tackle homelessness, and new legislation to strengthen the assistance to people who are homeless or at risk of being homeless.

The Homelessness Directorate published a good practice handbook to help local authorities conduct homelessness reviews and develop effective homelessness strategies. In addition, on 14 March 2002 the Homelessness Directorate invited local authorities to apply for £10 million funding, and submit proposals, for local homelessness strategies. These are being considered at the moment.

In addition, the Government has already provided local authorities with an additional £8 million per annum in Revenue Support Grant to help them meet their new statutory obligations under the Homelessness Act 2002. All housing authorities will also receive a share of an additional £10 million in 2002–03 to enable them to deliver our proposed Order to extend the priority need groups under Part VII of the Housing Act 1996.

Also in March 2002, a £35 million programme was launched to help local authorities ensure that by March 2004 no homeless family with children is in bed and breakfast hotels (B& B) other than in an emergency, and even then for no more than 6 weeks. On 17 June £25 million was allocated to the 42 local authorities with the highest number of families with children in B& B hotels to help them meet the March 2004 commitment. We will now be working with the next 40 highest using authorities to see how we can help them reduce B & B hotel numbers.

Authorities have also been sent a 10&-point checklist of good practice outlining the key 'building blocks' in reducing B&B hotel use. Regional seminars have been held and examples of good practice have been shared through a newsletter and via the ODPM website.