To approve progress in implementing the Homelessness prevention and rough sleeping strategy and approve the strategic approach for Project Brave.

Cabinet considered a report comprising a mid-point review of the Homeless Reduction and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2020 – 2025 and setting out the strategic approach to Homelessness. The cabinet member housing, regulatory services and community introduced the report and explained that the strategy has made good progress overall. The ‘Project Brave’ initiative emerged as a response to homelessness during the covid-19 pandemic and has delivered well. The report set out the proposed long term strategic approach, building on the progress delivered during the pandemic.

Cabinet members discussed the report and noted that feedback from those with lived experience is important and helpful to ensure the provision targets those most vulnerable. The strategy has a wide remit, reflecting the range of issues and challenges faced by those living on the street or at risk of becoming homeless. Close co-operation with voluntary sector organisations has supported the efforts of the council and it is important these links are maintained.

Group leaders expressed their support for the work done to date and the need for a strategic approach to the long term and complex needs of this cohort.

It was resolved that:

a)             Cabinet note and approve the mid-point review and progress of the Homeless Reduction and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2020-2025;

b)             Consider and approve the strategic approach to Project Brave; and

c)             Authority is delegated to the Corporate Director, Community Wellbeing to take all operational decisions required to implement the Project Brave Strategic approach (as set out in Appendix A), including securing and utilising and relevant external grant funding.