Lib Dems uncover growing homelessness figures
LIB DEMS UNCOVER GROWING HOMELESSNESS FIGURES

In a recent report written for the Liberal Democrats in B&NES it has 
emerged that the problem of providing housing for people in housing need 
is growing. The problem is particularly acute for single homeless in 
priority need. This group includes those in greatest need of 
accommodation, as defined by the Government.

In 1998-9 there were 98 people on the register for single priority need 
accommodation, but only 76 lettings were available. That meant there was 
an accommodation supply shortfall of 22. Three years on, this figure has 
risen to 85. 

In addition the Government is now extending the categories of priority 
homeless to include 5 new groups of people including all 16 and 17 year 
olds, and people ceasing to occupy accommodation as a result of fleeing 
violence. This will mean new obligations on all Local Authorities, and 
there may be up to thirty additional people registered as priority 
homeless by 2003. To date there has been no extra funding identified to 
meet this obligation.

Cllr Steve Hedges, Liberal Democrat Housing Spokesman, said 

"B&NES has worked hard with housing providers, and is looking for new ways 
to tackle the problems of homelessness across the Authority. However the 
Government ties our hands, as well as our budgets. We are not free to use 
our revenue for investment in affordable housing, nor can we specify the 
percentage of low-cost housing on new developments. In an area like B&NES, 
where housing costs are high, the consequences are inevitable - rising 
homelessness. Liberal Democrats have long argued that it is time to end 
the 50% rebate on Council Tax for second homes and allow Local Authorities 
to use such money to invest in social housing. Greater control over 
planning applications would also enable us to ensure that low cost housing 
continues to be built, for this and future generations."

Cllr Hedges will be asking for a full report on the implications of 
Homelessness in B&NES at the Housing and Public Protection Committee 
tomorrow (6th September) in The Guildhall, Bath.

Ends
For further info contact Cllr Hedges on 07971 270 879