Homelessness Strategy 2010 – 2015

This is Cheshire West and Chester's first Homelessness Strategy (PDF 2680 kb) following local government review. This strategy will continue to build upon the significant achievements made by the previous districts to tackle homelessness, and will seek to enhance existing services and develop new initiatives.

This strategy has been developed in response to the findings of the Homelessness Review 2009, which provided a very detailed and comprehensive analysis of homelessness in Cheshire West and Chester.

The review highlighted a number of issues to be addressed within the strategy. The priorities that have been identified are based on the findings of the homelessness review and government priorities. They have been developed in conjunction with the Cheshire West and Chester Homelessness Steering Group.

The six priorities are:

• Developing the Housing Solutions Service
• Delivery of the Enhanced Housing Options programme
• Preventing homelessness during the recession
• Ending rough sleeping
• Improving supported accommodation and move on
• Improving access to permanent accommodation

This strategy has been developed in consultation with partner agencies and service users. Cheshire West and Cheshire Council recognises that homelessness cannot be tackled by the Local Authority working in isolation, rather it is dependent upon effective joint working between the Local Authority and all organisations who are working to prevent and respond to homelessness.

The strategy will cover the period 2010 to 2015 and will be monitored and reviewed by the Cheshire West and Chester Homelessness Steering Group, as well as through the local authority’s internal performance management systems.

We would welcome your feedback on the Homelessness Strategy.  If you would like any further information or would like to comment please contact Joanne Walters, Housing Solutions Development Manager or view our questionnaire which you may wish to complete as part of your response.