Published on 15th October 2013

green plastic houses

Cheltenham Borough Council's housing options team is one of the top performing local authorities for reducing homelessness.

Comparisons for the quarter show that the council has come eighth out of 326 local authorities across the country.

Martin Stacy, housing and communities manager, says: “The comparison, which is based upon the number of households deemed to be statutory homeless per 1,000 households, is the most useful tool available for us to compare ourselves fairly across other local authorities.”

In the period April to June 2013 only one household was found to be statutorily homeless. Many households have their homelessness resolved through a variety of mechanisms. Some are through successful negotiations with private landlords, others are assisted in finding alternative accommodation in the private rented sector or supported housing if individuals have support needs. Some are also able to secure social housing before they become homeless by successfully bidding on Gloucestershire Homeseeker, the county's web-based Allocations Scheme. 

Martin adds: “The housing options service is a preventative service for those at risk of becoming homeless. We are proud of our achievements, but we know there is still much more that we want to do.”

Councillor Peter Jefferies, cabinet member for housing, safety and communities, continues: “This is a fantastic accolade to the team who work so hard to deliver this invaluable service to those that need it.

“The housing options team will soon be moving over to Cheltenham Borough Homes who will work hard to ensure this service is enhanced. These results show what a wonderful job the staff are doing.”

Cheltenham Borough Homes (CBH) is the arms length management company for council housing in the borough. They manage and maintain over 5,000 council owned homes.

Paul Stephenson, Chief Executive at CBH said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming such a top performing team to CBH. This achievement is testament to officers’ skills and dedication and we’re looking forward to working with them and the council to continue delivering and developing a service that meets the needs of the local community.”

For press enquiries contact: Kelly Carter, communications officer, telephone 01242 264154, email [email protected]

Notes: Cheltenham Borough Homes is an arms length management company which manages council housing in the borough.