Waltham Forest Council is intensifying its efforts to combat homelessness through its Housing Sustainment Team, which supports families in the private rented sector who are at risk of losing their tenancies. The team helps residents claim welfare support to prevent debt and financial difficulties which can lead to losing tenancies.
The team's work was highlighted during a recent Scrutiny Coordinating Committee meeting on Wednesday 24 September 2025, where councillors reviewed the council's early intervention and prevention strategies.
The Housing Sustainment Team has helped residents claim an additional £106,514 in welfare support between the start of April and the end of August 2025. This financial assistance helps prevent debt and financial difficulties that can lead to tenancy loss.
In addition to financial support, the team has successfully prevented 22 households from becoming homeless during the same period, providing an estimated cost avoidance of £273,038. The specific factors included in this calculation are not detailed in the meeting information.
The Housing Sustainment Team is one of several initiatives highlighted in the council's Early Intervention and Prevention report, which are described as being at the heart of Mission Waltham Forest. The report states that the council wants to shift away from treating symptoms and focus on building strong and resilient communities.
The Early Intervention and Prevention report outlines key priorities within the current Prevention programme plan, which include hardwiring prevention, tracking impact, working locally, and delivering in partnership. The report also identifies key themes that the council is exploring, such as Integrated Neighbourhood Teams, Family Help, Community Help, Housing Help, and a new approach to Culture and Practice.
