Kensington and Chelsea Council is reviewing its support for homeless families placed in bed and breakfast accommodation (B&Bs) and commercial hotels, recognising the challenges these families face. The review will involve assessing engagement with children, young people, parents, carers, and stakeholders over the past three years, with bespoke co-production work planned with these groups. The RBKC Youth Council will play a significant role in finalising the plan.
The review was highlighted in the Bi-Borough Children and Young People's Plan (CYPP) Two-Year On report, which was discussed at the Family Services Select Committee meeting on Thursday, 3 July 2025. The report noted the increasing number of families with children being placed in B&Bs due to housing shortages, often exceeding the statutory six-week limit. This situation can lead to emotional stress, limited cooking facilities, increased risks for young children, inadequate sleeping arrangements, and a lack of stimulation.
To address these issues, a partnership has been formed between housing services, public health, Early Help, and Unfold, a voluntary community service. This partnership aims to improve outcomes for families in temporary accommodation by addressing the challenges they face, such as emotional stress, limited cooking facilities, increased risk for young children, inadequate sleeping arrangements, and lack of stimulation. Unfold's ability to operate across boroughs complements the council's efforts to support Kensington and Chelsea families. A weekly list of families with children aged 18 and under, placed in B&Bs or commercial hotels, is shared via the Data Manager (Housing) to determine existing support and identify any gaps.
The CYPP Two-Year On report [A4.1 CYPP Two Years On Report] provides further details on this initiative.
