The extent of the housing crisis in Brent has broken through some of the 'feel good' election publicity coming out of Brent Labour Party.
Brent Chief Executive, Kim Wright, has written to all councillors detailing changes to the system where they pass on residents' concerns over housing to the Housing Department. Ms Wright says that the 'sheer volume' of members enquiries is taking her colleages away from giving direct resident support and that the temporary moratorium on councillors making enquiries will stabilise support and ensure urgent cases are managed safely.
The position will be reviewed post-election on May 11th.
Furthermore, the council cannot guarantee that it will meet the current 10 working day deadline for enquiries already lodged. Enquiries will be triaged to identify any safeguarding concerns and other urgent issues so they can be dealt with quickly.
The CEO asks councillors to direct resident who need housing help to the Brent Council website. She warns councillor not to try and work around the moratorium by contacting officers directly or contacting the lead cabinet member for housing.
Kim Wright says the service is currently experiencing 'unprecedented' numbers of residents who need help, advice and support with homelessness and housing options. The implementation of the Renters; Rights Act that is due on May 1st is increasing demand, reflecting a rise in private sector evictions.
In addition to the pressures cited I think it is like that existing councillors out on the election campaign trail, knocking on doors, are being confronted with the reality of the housing crisis as residents complain about their housing conditions, soaring rents and charges, and the behaviour of some rogue landlords.
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