Enfield Council has avoided more than £1.19 million in annual costs through a targeted project aimed at reducing reliance on expensive nightly paid accommodation and helping families facing homelessness find more sustainable housing options.
The council’s Project Knock and Know team visited more than 620 temporary accommodation properties, speaking directly with residents about their housing circumstances, eligibility and available support.
As a result of the visits, 48 nightly paid accommodation (NPA) bookings were cancelled, avoiding an estimated £1,197,160 in annual costs to the council.
The council said some residents no longer required the accommodation, while others were found to be ineligible.
214 families interested in moving
The project also found strong interest among residents in exploring alternative housing arrangements.
A total of 214 families expressed an interest in moving on with support from the council. In addition, 24 families were identified as likely to be suitable for an out-of-London placement, with a further four potentially suitable.
The project also helped households experiencing financial difficulties. Thirty-four payment plans were established to help residents manage rent arrears and remain in their accommodation.
A total of 172 call-backs were also completed as part of the initiative.
Nightly paid accommodation is generally used as an emergency and short-term solution for people facing homelessness. However, it is among the most expensive forms of temporary accommodation, while demand has increased as councils across the UK face growing homelessness pressures.
Council says savings can support local services
Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Technology, Cllr Lee Chamberlain, said the project demonstrated the value of direct engagement with residents.
He said speaking to families had helped the council confirm that accommodation was being used by people who needed it, while encouraging residents to consider alternative housing options where appropriate.
Chamberlain said reducing reliance on expensive nightly paid accommodation would generate savings that could be reinvested in essential local services.
The council said the engagement exercise also provided a clearer picture of residents’ circumstances and housing aspirations.
According to the findings, many households are willing to consider alternative housing options when they receive clear information and practical support.
Enfield Council said the findings would be used to help shape future homelessness prevention and housing support services across the borough.
