Subscribe to trusted local news
In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.
- Subscription costs less than £1 a week with an annual plan.
Already a subscriber? Log in here.
17
Aug 2022
Concerns over ‘perfect storm’ of homelessness in Harrogate
Concerns have been raised over a “perfect storm” of homelessness in Harrogate due to the cost of living crisis and a lack of accommodation.
Harrogate Borough Council recently revealed a “huge” 60% increase in requests for housing help, which has led to more homeless people staying in bed and breakfasts for longer.
The council also said it has had difficulties in moving hostel tenants into permanent housing as cases have been “more complex than normal”.
Speaking at a meeting on Monday, Trevor Watson, director of economy and culture at the council, said these issues combined with a lack of private rental properties in the district were creating a “perfect storm”.
A total of 370 people accessed housing help in the first quarter 2022 – up from 334 the same time in the previous year.
The increase comes amid big rises in the cost of living with soaring prices putting a squeeze on people’s finances.
Harrogate Fairfax Liberal Democrat councillor Chris Aldred urged the council to not “lose sight” of the worsening situation as he also raised concerns over long delays in the licensing of multiple occupancy houses.
Read more:
- How Harrogate objections have halted Leeds conference venue – for now
- Harrogate Convention Centre ‘could lose £250 million without investment’
- Harrogate council could dip into reserves to cover soaring energy costs
The council is currently taking an average of 323 days to licence these properties against a target of 60.
Mr Watson blamed the backlog on the covid pandemic which he said has had a “huge impact” on staff being able to process applications.
A report to Monday’s overview and scrutiny meeting said councils across the country are facing similar issues and that finding accommodation for homeless people “isn’t always easy due to complicating factors like mental health or debts”.
It said:
0