Redbridge Council is considering offering a travel subsidy to homeless residents, alongside access to local facilities and services, as part of a broader effort to improve support and address housing needs complaints. This initiative aims to provide interim assistance to vulnerable clients while longer-term housing solutions are being pursued.
The potential subsidy and other support measures were discussed at the Homes and Neighbourhoods Policy Development Committee meeting on Monday, 17 November 2025, as part of a review of recommendations stemming from a previous presentation on housing needs complaints. Recommendation 6.1 includes offering interim support, such as access to local facilities and services,
while recommendation 6.2 specifically mentions offering interim assistance, such as access to a travel subsidy.
The recommendations under consideration aim to improve the council's complaints procedure and enhance support for vulnerable clients. These include:
- Providing information on waiting times and temporary accommodation numbers to people waiting on the phone.
- Creating flow diagrams and checklists for applicants.
- Ensuring application forms have clear sections for health needs, family structure, school requirements, and work location.
- Introducing a 'complex needs' flag.
- Using AI technologies for clearer, more empathetic letters.
- Providing staff training on customer care and trauma-informed communication.
- Creating a specialist team targeting those at greatest risk of homelessness.
- Improving suitability assessments.
- Conducting joint assessments with adult social care where appropriate.
The committee is reviewing these recommendations to determine how best to implement them.
The Homes and Neighbourhoods Policy Development Committee agenda and reports pack are available online.
