Homelessness
Councils are currently focusing on increasing temporary accommodation supply and developing strategies to prevent homelessness and boost housing.
Tower Hamlets Council's Cabinet approved plans in October 2026 to acquire commercial buildings for 180 new temporary homes, aiming to reduce costly out-of-borough placements. Brent Council's Cabinet approved a five-year plan in October 2026 to improve temporary accommodation quality, while Ealing Council's Cabinet adopted a new three-zone policy for placements. Brent Council is also facing anticipated expenditure of £38 million on nightly paid accommodation, with a forecasted £9.5 million overspend, as discussed in September 2026.
Several councils are implementing strategies to prevent homelessness and increase housing supply. Hackney Council's 'no fixed abode' market licenses helped two individuals secure housing and income in October 2026. Brent Council's Cabinet approved a community housing project for 19 affordable homes in October 2026, and its five-year plan aims to prevent homelessness for 42% of households. Croydon Council approved a strategy in September 2026 to save £10 million by 2030, prevent homelessness earlier, and increase housing supply, also planning 1,000 new homes.
Key facts
- Tower Hamlets Council's Cabinet approved plans in October 2026 to acquire commercial buildings for 180 new temporary homes. Source
- Hackney Council's 'no fixed abode' market licenses helped two individuals secure housing and income in October 2026. Source
- Brent Council's Cabinet approved a five-year plan in October 2026 to combat homelessness and rough sleeping, aiming to prevent homelessness for 42% of households. Source
- Ealing Council's Cabinet approved a new policy in October 2026 to standardise the placement of homeless households in temporary accommodation. Source
- Croydon Council approved a Temporary Accommodation Strategy and Action Plan in September 2026, projecting £10 million in savings by 2030. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 22 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.