Private Rented Sector Access Schemes in London An analysis and directory of provision that helps homeless people to access rented accommodation in the private sector

Antoinette Hoffland and Peter Watson Resource Information Service

September 2007

Crisis is the national charity for single homeless people. We have a vision of social integration and work year-round to help vulnerable people and marginalised people to get through the crisis of homelessness, fulfil their potential and transform their lives. We develop innovative services which enable homeless people to progress through education and creativity and we campaign for a more inclusive society. We regularly commission and publish research and organise events to raise awareness about the causes and nature of homelessness, to find innovative and integrated solutions and share good practice.

The London Housing Foundation is a strategic grant-maker, supporting homelessness agencies in the capital to work more effectively. We work in close partnership with the sector that we support to offer innovative solutions to single homelessness.

Resource Information Service (RIS) is a national charity that researches and publishes high quality information for people in need. RIS provides a range of authoritative directories, websites and information systems that help agencies deliver better services. As the leading publisher of information about services for homeless people, RIS’s Homeless London (www.homelesslondon.org) and other websites receive tens of thousands of visitors a month.

Crisis 66 Commercial Street, London, E1 6LT Tel: 0870 011 3335, Fax: 0870 011 3336 Email: [email protected], Website: www.crisis.org.uk Crisis UK (trading as Crisis). Charity no 1082947. Company no 4024938

© Crisis, September 2007 ISBN 978-1-899257-55-3 (1-899257-55-1)

Contents Acknowledgements ............................................................................................................... i Executive Summary............................................................................................................1 1. 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5

Introduction ......................................................................................................3 The need for research into private rented sector access schemes............................3 Mapping of private rented sector access schemes ..................................................3 Method.................................................................................................................3 About this report...................................................................................................4 Structure of this report ..........................................................................................5

PART A: Overview of PRS Access Schemes in London 2.

Number of schemes..........................................................................................6

3.

Scheme providers .............................................................................................6

4.

Location and area served.................................................................................6

5. 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.7 5.8 5.9 5.10

Client groups.....................................................................................................7 Local connection ...................................................................................................7 Target group .........................................................................................................7 Priority need ..........................................................................................................8 Families .................................................................................................................8 Couples.................................................................................................................9 Single people ........................................................................................................9 Rough sleepers and people who are street homeless ...........................................10 Substance users...................................................................................................10 Hostel residents seeking move-on........................................................................11 Open access schemes for anyone on benefits or low incomes ..............................11

6.

Access to schemes ..........................................................................................11

7.

Services for clients..........................................................................................12 Self help schemes ................................................................................................12 Landlord and tenant matching schemes ..............................................................12 Relocation schemes .............................................................................................12 Letting periods ....................................................................................................13 Housing Benefit...................................................................................................13 Support with other welfare benefits ....................................................................14 Help with furniture..............................................................................................14 Tenancy support and innovative schemes ............................................................14 Private sector leasing schemes .............................................................................14

7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5 7.6 7.7 7.8 7.9

8. 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5 8.6 8.7

Services for landlords.....................................................................................15 Cash deposit schemes .........................................................................................15 Bond/guarantee schemes ....................................................................................15 Finder Fees ..........................................................................................................15 Rent in advance...................................................................................................16 Housing Benefit Fast Track services ......................................................................16 Other incentives for landlords ..............................................................................16 Landlord charges .................................................................................................17

9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4 9.5

Practice issues and innovation ......................................................................17 Access to schemes...............................................................................................17 Client groups ......................................................................................................18 Accommodation..................................................................................................18 Welfare benefits ..................................................................................................19 Services provided.................................................................................................19

9.

10.

Conclusion.......................................................................................................20

PART B: Directory of PRS Access Schemes in London

Acknowledgements Thanks to all the agencies that provided their time for a telephone interview and checked their details. Thank you to Raechel Haynes at Homelink and Alaicos Hagi-Georgiou at Barnet SmartMove for piloting research methods. Thanks to Crisis and London Housing Foundation for advice throughout.

i

Executive Summary Homeless people and those reliant on low incomes/welfare benefits find it particularly difficult to access private rented sector accommodation. This is usually due to difficulties with being able to afford to pay rent deposits/rent in advance payments and the reluctance of many landlords to accept people who have been homeless and those in receipt of welfare benefits. In recent years, a number of private rented sector (PRS) access schemes have therefore been developed. By providing services such as rent deposits/rent in advance and incentives to landlords, these schemes are playing an increasingly important role in helping homeless people and those at risk of homelessness to access private rented sector accommodation. This is especially the case in London where decent, affordable rented accommodation is often especially hard to access. Until now, there has been little information available about PRS access schemes operating across London. This work, commissioned by Crisis in partnership with the London Housing Foundation, therefore aimed to identify the number and location of schemes that exist, referral routes, who they serve, and what services they provide to clients and landlords. The main initial findings include: •

Almost all London boroughs have a PRS access scheme operating in their area, but eligibility for help is restricted to specific client groups and mainly via specified, often restricted, referral routes.

•

Forty two PRS access schemes are provided by 42 agencies across different areas of London, and 38 of these provided details about their services for the analysis carried out for this report. Six schemes serve more than one borough, and nearly half the schemes allow people to relocate to other boroughs in London or elsewhere in the country.

•

Nearly three quarters of these schemes are run by local authorities and based in their homelessness and housing options services, and about a quarter are voluntary sector schemes.

•

Nearly all London boroughs have a local authority-run PRS access service for homeless families who are in priority need. Most of these require a referral from the local authority homelessness service or housing options service.

•

Only five schemes specifically mentioned providing services for couples without dependent children.

•

Overall, 30 schemes provide services for single homeless people, including those in priority need. However, only 17 of these (under half of all schemes identified) serve single people not in priority need. Ten of these are provided by local authorities and seven are provided by charities. As most of these schemes require a local connection and/or are for specific target groups, single people in many areas do not have a PRS access scheme available to them.

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•

Referral routes to PRS access schemes are often limited: half of them have closed referrals (ie only from within the agency itself), around 40 per cent allow referrals from other agencies referrals and just a fifth of schemes permit self referrals. It is also often difficult to locate schemes and there was a lack of readily available information about services as they often have such restricted referral routes. Some schemes expressed reservations about providing information about services for fear of receiving too many applicants or inappropriate referrals.

•

Some schemes specifically provide services for rough sleepers, people with alcohol or drug problems and people escaping from domestic violence. Provision for street homeless people and the three schemes for homeless people moving on from hostel accommodation are confined to the charities sector. The schemes specifically for people leaving hostels have very restricted referral routes and in two cases are only available to residents of the organisations that run the schemes. Therefore there may be a need to develop further schemes for people moving on from hostels given the well-documented shortage of move-on accommodation.

•

Overall, schemes provide a range of services for clients that may include matching with landlords, relocation to other areas, longer letting periods, tenancy support, help with Housing Benefit claims, advice on other welfare benefit entitlements, or help with furniture. Some schemes have developed particularly innovative services eg specific support around employment and training.

•

Incentives and services offered to landlords include cash deposits (typically refundable to the scheme), guarantees or bonds in lieu of a rent deposit, rent in advance, finder fees and other non-returnable incentive payments. Some schemes offer other support services to landlords to help make the task of renting to tenants claiming benefits less onerous. The most common services include Housing Benefit Fast Track, landlord and tenant mediation and advice on legal issues.

This mapping exercise is the first stage of a project developed by Crisis in partnership with the London Housing Foundation (LHF) to get a clearer view of what schemes currently operate in London, to explore and evaluate elements of different schemes, and to draw up a framework of the elements that make a successful scheme. The intention is that it will lead to greater sharing of knowledge about PRS schemes and good practice so that more homeless people are helped to find the accommodation they need in the future.

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1.

Introduction

1.1

The need for research into private rented sector access schemes

The private rented sector is increasingly recognised as a key source of accommodation for homeless people, particularly single homeless people. It is also being seen as a potential resource for homeless families living in temporary accommodation, or awaiting nomination to a secure tenancy. The private rented sector may be a great untapped housing resource for both the prevention and reduction of homelessness, particularly when set against the diminishing stock of local authority housing and the lack of move-on accommodation for people ready to leave hostels and temporary accommodation. Despite this great potential, many homeless people have difficulties accessing decent private rented accommodation as they are not able to pay rent in advance and/or a deposit that private sector landlords require. Landlords can also be reluctant to let their properties to people who have been homeless, those on low incomes, unemployed people and/or on benefits and those with support needs. Many fear that they have little protection against problems with their tenants, rent arrears, housing benefit delays and other issues. These problems in accessing private rented accommodation for homeless people are especially difficult in London with high rents and lack of available accommodation in many areas. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of schemes set up to help people access private rented accommodation. These private rented sector (PRS) access schemes provide a range of valuable services that help homeless people successfully get the accommodation they need and help landlords find tenants for their properties. Services provided may include help with rent deposits, securing housing benefit payments, and matching clients and landlords.

1.2

Mapping of private rented sector access schemes

There has been no comprehensive, detailed information available about PRS access schemes across London. It was in this context that Crisis, in partnership with the London Housing Foundation (LHF), commissioned Resource Information Service to research services that provide access to PRS accommodation to produce a comprehensive resource for agencies and homeless people. A mapping of services is essential to enable effective working within and across the sector by interested parties and to provide a sound basis for future research and development of the sector. This mapping exercise is the first stage of a project being developed between Crisis and the London Housing Foundation (LHF) to get a clearer view of what schemes currently operate in London, to explore and evaluate elements of different schemes, and to draw up a framework of the elements that make a successful scheme.

1.3

Method

The remit for the research for this report defined PRS access schemes as being those set up to help address the housing needs of people (including families, couples and single people) who are homeless or threatened with homelessness, or who would be vulnerable to becoming homeless if they do not receive assistance. The focus was on identifying schemes in London that provide specific services and practical assistance (such as rent deposit or rent guarantees)

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to help these client groups access private rented accommodation. The research did not aim to examine the much larger number of services that offer the public more basic information and advice on finding rented accommodation, or schemes which involve leased temporary accommodation. Using this definition, the first task involved examining three existing partial datasets about PRS access schemes to confirm whether schemes were still operating and identify key contacts for data gathering. A coverage check across all London boroughs was then done to identify any additional schemes. It was recognised at an early stage that information about PRS schemes may be particularly difficult to gather as many do not widely publicise their services. Most have limited referral routes (eg the local authority-run schemes that are only available internally to their staff) and restrictions on number of clients they are able to serve, and so some could be reluctant to provide details about their services if they think that they may be inundated with referrals. Therefore when contacting schemes, an option of confidentiality of responses was built into the research to encourage the highest possible response rate. All scheme providers were also given an opportunity to review and amend their information and were invited to consent to having their details published. The data was gathered by structured telephone interview, and interviews typically lasted 1520 minutes to gather as much detail as possible about what services schemes provide. Once this data had been collected and verified, respondents were also invited to take part in the second part of this research which was a request for statistical data by questionnaire covering client statistics, landlord statistics, funding and client recording. Due to the possible sensitivity of this second stage data, all information about each scheme was to remain strictly confidential and not to be published. The questionnaire was piloted with two organisations but the research was not successful in gaining any further information back from agencies in the timescale available – only one agency was able respond fully to the questionnaire and one agency provided some information in response by telephone. Unfortunately the short timescale allowed for the research did not permit any follow-up work to contact nonrespondents during this stage of the wider project.

1.4

About this report

This report presents an analysis and listing of the information produced during the mapping exercise undertaken by Resource Information Service in May 2007. It includes information about schemes that agreed to have their details published at the time of the research. Details of the schemes are also available in an online searchable database, which will be regularly updated, and can be accessed through the London Housing Foundation website at www.privaterentedsector.org.uk. If you would like your scheme included in the directory, or would like to amend any details currently presented, please contact the Crisis SmartMove team: Dave Hewitt, Project Manager Crisis SmartMove 66 Commercial Street, London, E1 6LT Tel: 0870 011 3335 Email: [email protected]

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1.5

Structure of this report

Part A of this report describes presents an analysis of the information collected through the research, covering a number of aspects including number of schemes and their location and area served, access to schemes and client groups served, and information about services for clients and landlords. This section also includes a short summary of examples of practice issues and innovation. Part B provides a directory of schemes from across London, listed alphabetically by the name of the local authority where they are based. The schemes included are those that have given their permission for inclusion at the time of publication. The online database of schemes (accessible at www.privaterentedsector.org.uk) will be updated regularly and may contain additional schemes. Schemes not currently included in the online database that wish to be included should contact the Crisis SmartMove Project Manager, Dave Hewitt (details above).

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PART A Overview of PRS Access Schemes in London 2.

Number of schemes

The research for this project identified 42 PRS access schemes across London and 38 of these provided details about their services. Of the schemes that were not able to provide information for the research, three are run by local authorities in Ealing, Havering and Wandsworth, and a scheme for young people is run by the charity Centrepoint. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the rest of this report are based on the data about the 38 schemes.

3.

Scheme providers

Nearly three quarters of the PRS access schemes are run by local authorities and area based in their homelessness and housing options services. Of the overall total of 42 schemes identified in the research, 30 (71%) are run by local authorities and 12 (29%) are voluntary sector schemes. However, two charities (Spear and Homelink) provide services to homeless clients referred from local authorities. One local authority outsources its rent deposit scheme service to a private scheme ‘Lettings First’. Almost all the services for families are provided by local authorities. Many of the charities particularly focus on serving single people and rough sleepers (although many local authorities also provide services for single people). This reflects the focus of much other service provision for single homeless people being traditionally provided by the voluntary sector.

4.

Location and area served

Almost all London boroughs have a PRS access scheme based in their area. One borough – Lewisham – currently has no scheme based in its area, but has plans to open/reinstate a scheme in the future. As shown in the table below, most schemes (32 or 84%), just serve clients from the one borough where they are based. Three schemes cover three boroughs. Three schemes, all run by voluntary sector agencies (11%) cover all of London. These are all services for rough sleepers or residents moving on from hostel accommodation.

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Table 1:

Number of areas served by schemes

Area served 1 local authority area 2 local authority areas 3 local authority areas All London services Total

No. of schemes 32 0 3 3 38

A total of 12 boroughs are served by more than one scheme (excluding the London wide schemes), although each scheme targets particular client groups and thus few boroughs have services that cover all possible client groups.

5.

Client groups

All PRS access schemes have particular target groups and sets of eligibility criteria which prospective clients must meet.

5.1

Local connection

Most schemes (30 and 79%) provide services for people with a local connection to a particular local authority area. All 28 local authority run schemes and two charities accepting referrals from local authority homelessness departments require a local connection to their local authority area. This applies even when the client group is not restricted to homeless people in priority need, as the idea of local connection underpins local authorities’ assessments procedures. Few schemes provide services covering more than one local authority area, and these tend to be services run by voluntary sector organisations and aimed at specific client groups such as hostel dwellers, people who are street homeless or substance users. All the charities eligibility criteria specify a geographical area, though this is more about the areas in which they operate and from which they source their clients, rather than ‘local connection’ in the legal sense used by local authorities.

5.2

Target group

The table below shows the groups of homeless people specifically targeted by schemes. Most schemes serve families and/or single people, and most provide services to more than one client group. Table 2:

Client groups specifically targeted by schemes

Client group Single people Families Rough sleepers/street homeless Substance users Childless couples People fleeing domestic violence BME groups

Total schemes 30 29 6 6 5 2 1

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Local authority 23 28 1 4 4 2 0

Charities 7 1 5 2 1 0 1

5.3

Priority need

All the schemes included in the research could readily categorise their service users into ‘priority’ and ‘non-priority’ homeless groups. Not surprisingly given their statutory obligations, most (90%) of the services for people in priority need are provided by local authorities. Table 3:

Priority need client groups

Client group People in priority need People not in priority need

Total schemes 30 18

Local authority 27 11

Charities 3 7

Eighteen local authority schemes provide services for both families and single people in priority need of housing. Ten local authorities provide schemes only for families in priority need, and two schemes only for single people in priority need.

5.4

Families

Services for families in priority need Out of the dataset of 38 schemes, 29 (77%) provide services for families with dependent children. Twenty-eight of these provide services for families in priority need. Of these, 27 are local authority-run services, with the remaining scheme run by a voluntary sector organisation, but receiving referrals directly from the local authority. Table 4:

Schemes providing services for families

Client group Families: any Families in priority need Families not in priority need

Total schemes 29 28 5

Local authority 28 27 5

Charities 1 1 0

Referrals to these schemes for families are typically via the local authority homelessness services only - 18 of these schemes operate referrals in this way. Seven local authority services for families allow referrals from other agencies. Only four schemes are open access, where homeless families may contact the schemes directly themselves (Brent, Camden, City of London, and Barking & Dagenham). Services for families not in priority need The number of PRS access schemes providing services for families not in priority need is limited: only five local authority schemes provide services for them (eg City of London, Brent and Southwark). These schemes either have open access referrals or accept referrals only from the local authority housing options team. The scheme run by LB Southwark targets families who are homeless, but not in priority need, including families deemed ‘intentionally homeless’. This enables families who would otherwise be excluded from receiving some assistance. The scheme provides these families with help in sustaining their tenancies through the support of a specialist team and a rent arrears officer.

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LB Brent’s scheme has an even wider target group and is an example of an open access rent deposit scheme that is open to anyone with a local connection with the borough. Another scheme (details not currently made public) targets single parents and families in ‘housing need’ rather than ‘homeless and in priority need’ who are referred from Social Services or housing departments. It is possible that this scheme may cater for the needs of people deemed ‘intentionally homeless’, but this was not specified. People fleeing domestic violence Two local authority schemes make specific provision for people fleeing domestic violence. One provides cash rent deposits (rather than its usual rent guarantee) to landlords outside of the area, with no requirement for the deposit to be refunded to the scheme. Another local authority waives its usual requirement that applicants to its scheme should have been living in the borough for a minimum of six months.

5.5

Couples

Only five services specifically mentioned childless couples as a target client group.

5.6

Single people

Out of the 38 schemes in the dataset, 30 (79%) provide services for single people. Of these, 20 provide services for single people in priority need and 17 provide services for single people not in priority need. Six services make some service provision for both single people in priority need and those not in priority need. Services specifically for rough sleepers/street homeless people are nearly all provided by charities. Table 5:

Schemes providing services for single people

Client group Single people: any Single people in priority need Single people not in priority need Rough sleepers/street homeless

Total schemes 30 20 17 6

Local authority 23 17 10 1

Charities 7 3 7 5

Single people in priority need Nearly all the services provided for single people in priority need are provided by local authority schemes, or, in one instance, by a charity on behalf of the local authority. This is unsurprising, given the existence of the duty of local authorities to house people in priority need. The three charities providing services for single people who may be considered to be in priority need all provide services for street homeless people, reflecting the need for specialist services for this client group and mirroring the structure of service provision generally for this group.

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Single people not in priority need Services for single people not in priority need are provided by ten local authority schemes and by seven charities. Most of these schemes require a local connection and/or are for specific groups of single people, so in many areas, single people not in priority need do not have a PRS access scheme available to them. Most of the schemes offered by local authorities provide services to single homeless people who face problems with finding private rented accommodation because of claiming Housing Benefit rather than because of particular support needs. For this client group, most schemes are ‘self-help’ schemes, where the client is expected to find their own property to rent. A few are aimed at more vulnerable groups, whom the local authority considers it would have a duty to rehouse under current homelessness legislation: the ‘borderline vulnerable’ group. Nearly all these local authority schemes have a ‘Housing Benefit Fast Track’ service. The only exception is one local authority which nearly always rehouses outside its area. The services provided by the voluntary sector schemes are typically for vulnerable single homeless people: people who are street homeless, drug or alcohol users, or ex-offenders. These services include the Equinox Bond scheme, Hope Worldwide ‘Two Step’, Quaker Social Action Homelink, Davish Enterprise Development Centre and two Threshold ‘SmartMove’ projects. One project specifically targets people of black or minority ethnic origin who are vulnerable and street homeless. Some of the schemes provide extra services offering support and help around issues such as employment, education and training. Some schemes are characterised by their early intervention approach, targeting people who are street homeless but new to the streets and who could be prevented from becoming long-term street homeless.

5.7

Rough sleepers and people who are street homeless

Six schemes provide services for people who are rough sleepers or street homeless. All but one are run by charities. The services are spread in bases located across London in Barnet, Greenwich, Islington, Hammersmith & Fulham, Hackney and Wandsworth. Three of these services require a local connection with one of six local authority areas. The remaining two schemes provide services to rough sleepers and homeless people based anywhere in London. These services often offer innovative and pro-active approaches to tackling street homelessness. Two agencies actively recruit clients by pro-actively going onto the streets and using their outreach services to make contact with homeless people. One service makes use of volunteers who house homeless people in their own homes, prior to accommodation being found in the private rented sector. One agency fosters and relies on its good reputation with landlords to enable properties to be secured without a rent deposit, or for a deposit to be paid in instalments.

5.8

Substance users

Six schemes provide services for substance users. Four are local authority schemes and two are drug and alcohol abuse charities. Most of these services provide for people with a local connection with one borough, whilst one covers three boroughs. None of the services cover the whole of London.

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5.9

Hostel residents seeking move-on

Three schemes, all run by charities, specifically serve residents of hostels and supported accommodation projects who are seeking to move on. These schemes cater only for the needs of the clients of these organisations or only accept referrals from specific agencies. One of these schemes is specifically for young people and another is the OSW scheme that helps clients into employment and private rented accommodation. Residents in hostels run by other homelessness organisations may benefit from similar provision if further such schemes were to be developed.

5.10

Open access schemes for anyone on benefits or low incomes

These schemes are designed to assist people on benefits or low incomes who are entitled to full Housing Benefit, not just those who are homeless. The London Borough of Brent provides an example of such a scheme which anyone entitled to Housing Benefit can apply directly to. Landlords are provided with a guarantee in place of rent, a Housing Benefit Fast Track system, inventory services and a standard tenancy agreement. Tenants are supported in their Housing Benefit application and benefit from properties which are fully inspected by the scheme.

6.

Access to schemes

In practice, referral routes to PRS access schemes are often limited. Of the 38 schemes, 19 (50%) have closed referral routes (ie from within the agency itself), 15 (39%) allow agency referrals and eight (21%) permit self referrals. Table 6:

Type of referral routes

Type of referral route Closed referral Agency referrals Self referrals

Total schemes 19 15 8

Local authority 17 (89%) 8 (53%) 5 (63%)

Charity 2 (11%) 7 (47%) 3 (37%)

Ten schemes accept referrals from more than one source, but the referrals must come from specific agencies or types of agency. Few schemes allow self referrals directly from individuals wishing to make use of their services – only eight schemes allow any kind of self referral, and most of these will also accept referrals from agencies. As a result of the PRS access scheme sector having overall quite closed referral routes, it is often difficult to find out about the existence of such schemes. During the course of researching data about schemes, it was often difficult to locate schemes and there was a lack of readily available information about services provided. Some schemes expressed reservations about providing information about services for fear of a potential increase in number of enquiries, applicants or inappropriate referrals.

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7.

Services for clients

Overall, PRS access schemes offer a range of services for clients, including ‘self help’ schemes, landlord and tenant matching and relocation to other areas. Schemes also vary according to the level of support offered to tenants, from no support, support such as help with benefit applications, furniture, mediation with landlords, or additional specialist services such as employment and training support.

7.1

Self help schemes

Applicants to these schemes take responsibility for finding a property themselves and persuading a landlord to accept them as tenants, backed by the range of support and benefits offered to the landlord by the scheme. These schemes are suitable for people who are able to manage tenancies themselves and who do not have specific support needs. The LB Brent and the City of London schemes are examples of self help schemes.

7.2

Landlord and tenant matching schemes

These schemes typically have a pool of landlord applicants and a pool of clients wanting accommodation. The schemes look at the needs of the prospective tenants and try to find a property from their pool of landlords that will suit their needs. Landlords may be actively recruited through programmes of advertising, or may simply approach the schemes themselves. Some schemes are really popular with landlords in the area and have waiting lists for landlords. Properties are usually inspected by the scheme, and are subject to safety checks. Tenants may be checked for suitability and any history of rent arrears identified. The local authority schemes in Bexley and Harrow are examples of tenant matching schemes, and Equinox Bond Scheme provides an example of this type of scheme run in the charitable sector for people with drug problems.

7.3

Relocation schemes

Seventeen schemes (45%) provide services that allow people to relocate to other boroughs in London, or across the UK. Six schemes projects allow the tenancy to be located anywhere in London. A further ten schemes permit properties to be located anywhere in England or the UK. Schemes often encourage tenants to locate their own properties in their chosen area, though some will match tenants to suitable properties. Schemes offering this type of service typically do not benefit from Housing Benefit Fast track systems. They also tend to offer cash deposits or a simple Finder Fees, rather than being deposit guarantee schemes. Some schemes offer this service in response to the lack of suitable available accommodation in their own areas. Issues of affordability are sometimes key: in the City of London, for example, it can be extremely difficult to find appropriate, affordable accommodation to meet the needs of homeless applicants. Some schemes in East London boroughs so regularly locate their applicants to towns in Essex that they are producing information packs with key information to enable clients to find schools, doctors and other essential services.

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7.4

Letting periods

Clients using PRS access schemes usually receive Assured Shorthold Tenancies which are used routinely in the private rented sector and generally offer a minimum letting period of six months. These tenancies therefore do not provide tenants with long term security of tenure. However, some of the schemes specified longer minimum letting periods for their landlords’ properties. Seven specified a minimum tenancy period of 12 months, one a minimum of 18 months and one a minimum of two years. All but one of the schemes specifying longer minimum periods are local authority schemes. Other schemes may also, in practice, set minimum let periods.

7.5

Housing Benefit

Housing Benefit is a major issue for all PRS access schemes. Twenty schemes mention some form of provision of help with Housing Benefit issues for their tenants, whether help with making housing benefit claims or with negotiating rent levels to Housing Benefit levels. Housing Benefit Fast track services are available as a feature of many schemes, making them more attractive as an option for landlords (see section 10). Only four schemes make no mention of Housing Benefit issues at all. Housing Benefit Fast Track schemes also benefit tenants, as they feature assistance with the completion and documentation of forms. It is clearly in tenants’ interests that their benefits are claimed and processed in a timely fashion. Indeed, some people find themselves at risk of homelessness or actually lose their home because of rent arrears resulting from delays in Housing Benefit claims and administration. Housing Benefit payments, even when made in full, do not always cover the full amount of the rent charged by landlords. Where claimants rely on benefits or low paid employment for their income, a shortfall between Housing Benefit and the actual amount of rent payable can be a serious issue, resulting in rent arrears, and possibly in subsequent termination of tenancies and homelessness. Some schemes try to address this problem by ensuring that a pre-tenancy determination of rent takes place as a condition of the scheme. Some schemes (eg the one run by LB Sutton) actively negotiate with landlords over the level of rent charges and insist it must match the Housing Benefit level. One voluntary sector scheme (Hope Worldwide Two Step) actively fundraises for and seeks charitable donations to cover its tenants’ Housing Benefit shortfalls. One local authority scheme considers paying Housing Benefit shortfalls in some limited situations. Clients of other local authority schemes must make up the shortfall themselves. Schemes of this sort also point out clearly to landlords that their rent deposit or guarantee schemes do not cover rent arrears accrued in this way, and, as such, cannot be recovered through their schemes. Housing Benefit Fast Track services in local authority schemes are typically open only to tenants of properties located in the same borough. However, one scheme (run by LB Hounslow) has extended its provision, enabling participants in other PRS schemes with landlord properties in their area to make use of their Housing Benefit Fast Track service.

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7.6

Support with other welfare benefits

Seven schemes provide advice on other welfare benefits for their clients and one makes regular referrals to a local Citizen’s Advice Bureau. Four schemes (two local authority and two voluntary sector) provide specific help with Community Care Grants.

7.7

Help with furniture

Nine schemes mentioned that they provide help with furniture for their clients, either providing help directly, or through referrals to local furniture projects. Four of these schemes are charities catering for the needs of specific client groups and five are local authority schemes. During the course of the research, one local authority scheme mentioned that it simply matched landlords and tenants appropriately to avoid this problem, so prospective tenants without their own furniture were moved into accommodation furnished according to the needs of the size and structure of their family/household. Similarly, unfurnished accommodation was secured for people with their own furniture. Schemes offering help with Community Care Grants may be able to help clients obtain grants for furniture.

7.8

Tenancy support and innovative schemes

Six schemes specifically mentioned providing tenancy support to clients to help them manage their tenancies and live independently. Five of these schemes targeted client groups including ex-offenders, street homeless people, and people in extreme need or alcohol and drug users. The remaining scheme is local authority-run service that relocates most of its clients outside its area, and therefore provides some ‘settling in’ support for people moving to their new area. Some of the voluntary sector schemes work with particularly vulnerable client groups and have set up some innovative schemes to take account of the specific support needs of their clients. These include: • OSW’s Transitional Spaces project which provides incentive payments to people on its programme when they obtain employment and accommodation • Hope Worldwide Two Step which provides emergency housing in the home of volunteers. It also negotiates deposit-free lettings through selected landlords, having succeeded in developing trusted relationships with landlords over time • Threshold ‘SmartMove’ projects that provide access to their ‘Crisis SmartSkills’ service to give support with life skills training.

7.9

Private sector leasing schemes

Some PRS access schemes provide longer term lets to tenants through the use of leasing schemes, where properties are leased from landlords for extended periods of up to five years. Only five schemes (four local authorities and one voluntary sector) specifically mentioned such services as being available for use by their client groups. One local authority mentioned that it uses a leasing scheme to rehouse families on a temporary basis only, prior to them being rehoused in permanent accommodation. The use of private sector leasing schemes by charities such as Broadway’s Real Lettings scheme has clear advantages for its vulnerable client group. As properties are leased for five years, lettings may be made over a period longer than that permitted by short term tenancies. Clients may therefore benefit from the relative stability created in their housing

14

situation. The constraints of this research did not enable a comprehensive mapping of all private sector leasing schemes and further mapping of provision and scope of these schemes may be useful.

8.

Services for landlords

Landlords (and their agents) are of central importance to the functioning of PRS access schemes as they provide the accommodation that enables the schemes to operate. Landlords need assurances that rent will be paid, that their properties will not be damaged and that they will not suffer financially by letting to particular client groups. Therefore schemes offer a range of incentives and services to landlords to address these issues. Financial incentives include cash deposit schemes, deposits or bonds in place of a cash deposit, rent in advance, finder fees and Housing Benefit Fast Track services. Other incentives involve support to landlords and assistance with some aspects of landlord services. These include the provision of tenancy agreements, inventory services, mediation with tenants over tenancy related problems and legal advice.

8.1

Cash deposit schemes

In the past, many PRS access schemes have offered landlords a cash deposit to cover any damage to their properties. This deposit was typically, though not always refunded to the scheme at the end of the tenancy or after an agreed period of time. However, schemes are increasingly offering bonds or rent guarantees rather than cash deposits as a way of avoiding the bureaucracy and extra work generated by the Government’s requirement for deposit protection schemes to be in place for new tenancies from 6 April 2007. Cash deposits are offered by 18 of the 38 schemes (48%) of which 17 are run by local authorities. Nine schemes accept landlords with properties located outside their borough. Fourteen of these schemes also offer a Housing Benefit Fast Track service.

8.2

Bond/guarantee schemes

Bonds or rent deposit guarantees offer landlords the same financial security as a cash deposit, but avoid the need for payment to be made unless a claim for damages incurred by a tenant is made by a landlord during the tenancy or at the end of the tenancy. Bonds or rent deposit guarantees are offered by 20 schemes (53%). Sixteen of these schemes also offer a Housing Benefit Fast Track service. Five of these schemes also offer rent in advance payments.

8.3

Finder Fees

Finder fees are used by four local authority schemes as non-refundable payments to encourage landlords to accept priority homeless families and single people as tenants. Amounts vary according to the local authority and, in some cases, by the length of tenancy. Amounts quoted range from £150 to £500. Finder fees were offered with a bond guarantee or cash deposit by two schemes, and on their own by the other two schemes.

15

8.4

Rent in advance

Rent in advance payments to landlords are offered by 13 schemes (34%). Rent in advance is usually paid to the landlord until Housing Benefit is in payment, when it is recovered by the scheme from the first payment of Housing Benefit. This ensures that landlords are not affected by any delays resulting from delays to the payment of Housing Benefit. Rent in advance payments are always offered in conjunction with either a cash deposit or guarantee in place of a deposit. No service offering rent in advance also offers a Finder Fee. Of the schemes offering rent deposits, eight offer Housing Benefit Fast Track services and five do not. Table 7:

Additional services offered by rent in advance schemes

Rent in advance schemes also offering: Housing Benefit fast track Cash deposits Rent guarantees/ bonds Finder fees Total no. of rent in advance schemes

8.5

No. of schemes 8 8 5 0 13

Housing Benefit Fast Track services

Many PRS access schemes have a special relationship with their local authority Housing Benefit Department which ensures that Housing Benefit claim forms are completed, checked and submitted with appropriate documentation to enable a decision on the claim to be made as quickly as possible. Many of these services have their own, dedicated member of staff who do this work. Twenty local authorities provide a Housing Benefit Fast Track service to local authority-run schemes based in their borough. Five services provided by charities also have access to Housing Benefit Fast Track services, including a Threshold SmartMove project, Broadway Real Lettings project, OSW Transitional Spaces Project and Hope Worldwide Two Step project. Given that charities do not administer Housing Benefit, this is a successful achievement and a good example of cross-sector working and co-operation.

8.6

Other incentives for landlords

Most PRS access schemes (28 schemes or 74%) provide some non-financial incentives to encourage landlords to use their services. These including providing standard tenancy agreements, organising inventories, advice on legal issues or an applicant reference checking service. The ten schemes that do not currently offer any of the services listed below are mostly local authority schemes that focus simply on providing a more basic access service. Table 8:

Non-financial incentives for landlords

Incentive Tenancy agreement provided Advice on legal issues Mediation with tenants Inventory services Property management

Total 12 8 8 7 6

16

Local Authority 8 5 5 6 1

Charities 4 3 3 2 5

Reference checking None of the above

1 10

1 9

0 1

Mediation with tenants over tenancy related problems is particularly important for groups which landlords may consider to be ‘high risk’. The three charities providing this service are for drug and alcohol users, people who have been street homeless and people requiring support with obtaining and maintaining employment. A further five local authority services also offer this service. One local authority separates its landlord advice and mediation service from that offered to tenants, to avoid a conflict of interest. Voluntary sector schemes are much more likely to offer property management services than local authorities, with five charities providing this service, compared with only one local authority.

8.7

Landlord charges

Landlords using estate agents or letting agents are normally charged for the service, but landlords that use PRS access schemes may benefit financially from the reduction or even elimination of costs associated with managing their tenancies. Only one scheme makes any charge to landlords – a fee of £100 which then also reduces the Finder Fee paid to the landlord by the same scheme.

9.

Practice issues and innovation

This section brings together some examples of interesting practice and highlights some issues uncovered during the course of researching data about PRS access schemes in London.

9.1

Access to schemes

Promoting information about schemes During the course of this research, it has been difficult to find publicly available information about PRS access schemes. Few are well publicised, reflecting the closed and specific referral routes to many of these schemes. Whilst individual schemes may feel no need for external publicity, this may not assist schemes who may wish to share ideas of good practice. Outreach schemes with street homeless people Davish Enterprise Development Scheme and Hope Worldwide Two Step are examples of schemes in the private sector being used to assist street homeless people. Both schemes use active outreach services on the streets to identify people in need. The Hope Worldwide Two Step scheme refers people to emergency, temporary housing in the homes of volunteers and then assists with finding private rented accommodation. The scheme proactively works with landlords, negotiating deposit free lets, or deposits paid in instalments over time. Open access schemes Just one open access scheme in LB Brent was identified for anyone claiming benefits or on a low income. Expansion of the numbers of this type of scheme could be useful to help more people benefit from the services of PRS access schemes.

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9.2

Client groups

People aged under 25 Provision for single people under the age of 25 is limited due to Housing Benefit restrictions. The LB Camden flat share scheme for under 25s has been set up to address the needs of this group, promoting access to cheaper accommodation in shared properties. ‘Intentionally homeless’ people Only one scheme – a local authority scheme in Southwark, specifically mentions serving the needs of people who are intentionally homeless. Some people who are intentionally homeless may be particularly vulnerable and increased access to this type of scheme, with appropriate support, may provide a solution to the immediate housing needs of this group of people. Services for homeless people living in hostels The research located a couple of schemes run to meet the needs of homeless people currently living in hostels (eg Broadway’s scheme for people living in its hostels). These schemes cater only for the needs of the clients of these organisations. Clients of other homelessness organisations may benefit from similar provision if further such schemes were to be developed. Single people not in priority need Local authority rent deposit schemes for single homeless people who are not in priority need who can refer themselves are very limited in number, with only four operating in Barnet, Camden, Southwark and the City of London. The number of local authority schemes for single homeless people not in priority need rises to 10 when schemes with closed or agency referrals are added. There is likely to be room for the expansion of services for this client group.

9.3

Accommodation

Minimum letting periods Some schemes specify minimum let periods ranging from 12 months to two years, and longer minimum let periods are likely to provide more stability for people being rehoused. People who are vulnerable may benefit, but so, too, would families with children who otherwise may be constantly uprooting from schools and other essential services. Private sector leasing schemes are a useful way of ensuring the availability of property for longer term lets. Improving the quality and range of available accommodation One leasing scheme uses its incentive payments as a means of securing housing of a particular size to meet the needs of its client group. It aims to increase the range of housing available in this way. Many schemes also carry out health and safety inspections of properties, and safety certificates are routinely required for gas and electricity services. This helps ensure the quality of housing is kept at least to a minimum standard.

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9.4

Welfare benefits

Housing Benefit shortfalls and poverty prevention Some schemes specifically try to address the issue of Housing Benefit shortfall by finding ways to minimise the impact of this problem on their tenants. One scheme tries, where possible, to make up Housing Benefit shortfalls through charitable donations and some local authorities may consider paying a rent shortfall via Housing Benefit in some, limited circumstances. Some local authorities insist that to participate in their schemes, landlords must agree to a pre-tenancy rent determination to ensure affordability of rent for tenants. Finally, some schemes promote benefits advice, help with claims for Community Care Grants and the take up of other welfare benefit entitlements. Extending Housing Benefit Fast Track Many schemes provide a Housing Benefit Fast Track or similar service for properties in their area to ensure prompt rent payments. One scheme has extended the provision of its Housing Benefits services and takes referrals from other PRS schemes rehousing people into its area. Some charities have also negotiated similar services, providing a model of effective cross sector working.

9.5

Services provided

Matching tenants to landlords Effective tenant matching schemes can organise away many problems that would otherwise be faced by people in need, from the need to obtain furniture, to the need to be located in a particular area for family or personal reasons, or to enable families to live in properties with gardens. One scheme goes so far as to match tenants and landlords who speak the same language, aiding communication between both parties. Relocation schemes A number of schemes included in this research promote and offer relocation of clients to other parts of London and even other parts of the country. The emphasis of these schemes is choice: applicants typically find their own property to move to, or specify where they wish to live. This approach may help some individuals and families to bring about substantial changes to their lives, bringing them closer to family, or enabling a move to areas where public housing stock is more plentiful. Once relocated, over time people build up a local connection with the new area and may apply for social housing in that area via the local authority waiting lists or other means of access. One scheme mentioned that as well as homeless people, it offers this service to existing council housing tenants too. This approach may result in more local housing stock becoming available for reletting in the local area. There may be room for extension of this type of relocation provision. Access to employment, training and accommodation OSW Transitional Spaces Project is an ‘employment first’ resettlement scheme, supporting residents of hostels and temporary supported accommodation first into employment and subsequently into move-on accommodation in the private rented sector. Its requirement for applicants to be in employment before being eligible for financial assistance to help access private rented accommodation is unusual in the PRS access scheme sector.

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Threshold ‘SmartMove’ projects also provide access to their ‘Crisis SmartSkills’ service to help with learning new life skills and developing confidence. Basic training courses include numeracy, literacy and budgeting, and individuals may access further courses to suit their interests and needs (eg cooking, healthy living, photography, pottery or yoga). Practical support – help with furniture Some schemes offer help with practical issues such as obtaining furniture or with referrals to furniture projects which appears a particularly valuable service for clients. Tenant support and mediation Many schemes offer support to tenants in dealing with landlords, either as part of the scheme or through other provision in the local authority eg through Tenancy Relations or Housing Advice services. Many schemes also offer landlord and tenant mediation services. One local authority separates its landlord advice and mediation service from that offered to tenants, to avoid a conflict of interest. Landlord Accreditation Schemes Some local authorities actively promote Landlord Accreditation Schemes, providing landlords with advice on legal and practical issues, educating them on their responsibilities and their rights. This helps encourage good practice, with a subsequent reduction in disputes and the need for mediation. If better landlord/tenant relationships are fostered, tenancies are more likely to be sustainable. Schemes of this sort fit neatly into a homelessness prevention strategy.

10.

Conclusion

This analysis has gathered together for the first time detailed information about private rented sector access schemes in London. It highlights the wide range of services provided to help clients get the accommodation they need. It also covers the range of incentives and support services available to enable landlords to house tenants they have not previously considered and to find tenants for their properties. The research provides a framework to describe the services that PRS provide which could be used for schemes in other areas of the UK. Although there is evidence of good overall geographical coverage with almost every borough having at least one scheme based/serving the local authority area, most schemes do have their own limited client target groups, services they offer and particular referral routes. These restrictions are likely to affect the extent to which there may be gaps in provision. A more detailed area-by-area analysis taking into account other forms of service provision for the full range of client groups would help identify where additional provision is likely to be needed, either in the form of new schemes or expanding the range and type of existing schemes. During the course of the research for this report there was evidence of significant demand for the services of PRS access schemes. Further gathering of data about numbers of clients and landlords served by these schemes, and the costs of providing services will enable a more thorough assessment of the value of the services these schemes provide.

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The difficulty in locating schemes and lack of readily available information about their services (given their often restricted referral routes) made gathering and publishing data about current provision quite difficult. However, making available the full information collected, including who schemes are for and who can and cannot make referrals, may help allay the fears of some services (eg around receiving too many applicants or inappropriate referrals) and enable schemes to learn from each other and improve services. Together with further work being undertaken by Crisis and London Housing Foundation, this report will help promote knowledge of these schemes, share good practice and ideas, and further develop the sector so that more homeless and vulnerable people are able to find the accommodation they need in the future.

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PART B Directory of PRS Access Schemes in London

September 2007

Information compiled by Resource Information Service

This section provides a listing of a range of schemes across London that provide help to people in need wanting to rent accommodation in the private rented sector. Schemes are listed alphabetically by the name of the local authority where they are based. Schemes listed in this directory were researched by telephone during May 2007 by Resource Information Service on behalf of Crisis and the London Housing Foundation. Schemes listed include rent deposit schemes providing a cash deposit, rent in advance, a guarantee or bond in place of a cash deposit, or financial and other incentives to encourage landlords to rent to people who are homeless or vulnerable. Schemes tend to be run by local authority housing departments, either as part of a housing options team, or as part of their homelessness services. A small number of housing charities, Housing Associations and drug charities also run schemes. The information presented here has been provided by the agencies themselves. All agencies listed agreed to the information being published at the time of the research, and have been given an opportunity to amend and approve the content of their entries. If you would like your scheme included in the directory, or would like to amend any details currently presented, please contact the Crisis SmartMove team: Dave Hewitt, Project Manager Crisis SmartMove 66 Commercial Street, London, E1 6LT Tel: 0870 011 3335 Email: [email protected] Details of the schemes are also available in an online searchable database that can be accessed through the London Housing Foundation website at www.privaterentedsector.org.uk.

Listing of schemes Local authority where based

Name of scheme

Barnet

Threshold Housing Advice - Barnet SmartMove

Barnet

LB Barnet - Homeseekers Rent Deposit Scheme

Bexley

LB Bexley Prevention & Assessment Team - Rent Direct Scheme

Brent

LB Brent - Private Housing Information Unit

Bromley

LB Bromley Bond Guarantee Scheme

Camden

LB Camden Housing Options & Advice - Private Rented Scheme

City of London

City of London Housing Department - Rent Deposit Scheme

Enfield

LB Enfield Housing Advice Team - Homefinders

Greenwich

Davish Enterprise Development Centre

Greenwich

LB Greenwich Housing Aid Centre - Rent Deposit

Hackney

LB Hackney Housing Advice Centre - Rent Deposit Scheme

Hackney

Quaker Social Action Network Homelink

Hammersmith & Fulham

LB Hammersmith and Fulham Housing Options & Advice - Direct Lettings Team

Haringey

LB Haringey Urban Environment - Housing Services - Prevention and Options

Harrow

LB Harrow - Finders Fee Scheme

Hillingdon

LB Hillingdon - Housing Advice Centre

Hounslow

LB Hounslow Housing Advice Service - Deposit Scheme

Islington

Hope Worldwide - Two Step

Islington

LB Islington Housing Aid Centre

Kensington & Chelsea

RB Kensington & Chelsea - Housing Initiative Team

Kingston-uponThames

Tenant Finder Service - Royal Borough of Kingston-upon-Thames

Lambeth

LB Lambeth Housing Options and Advice Unit

Merton

LB Merton Housing Solutions - Rent Deposit Schemes

Newham

LB Newham - Housing Options Centre

Redbridge

LB Redbridge - Housing Advice Centre

Richmond upon

Spear - Rent Deposit Guarantee Scheme

Local authority where based Thames

Name of scheme

Southwark

Equinox Bond Scheme - Wandsworth, Lewisham and Southwark

Southwark

OSW - Transitional Spaces Project

Southwark

LB Southwark Housing Options Services - Rent Deposit Scheme

Southwark

Broadway - Real Lettings

Sutton

LB Sutton - Housing Advice and Options Service

Tower Hamlets

LB Tower Hamlets Homelessness Services (Borough wide)

Waltham Forest

LB Waltham Forest Housing Advice Unit

Wandsworth

Threshold SmartMove London

Local authority where based: Barnet Threshold Housing Advice Barnet SmartMove Threshold Housing Advice Barnet Centre 36b Woodhouse Road London N12 0RG

Phone: Fax: Website:

020 8446 2504 020 8446 3191 www.crisis.org.uk

Project summary: SmartMove project includes a guarantee in place of a deposit and 4 week’s rent in advance for single people not in priority need. Client services: SmartMove project providing advice on accessing the private rented sector for single people who are not in priority need. Basic benefits advice. Tenancy support for ex- offenders and people with drug and alcohol issues. Rent negotiation. 'SmartSkills' literacy and numeracy project includes health and wellbeing, yoga, art, and creative writing. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Barnet. Client group: Single people not in priority need. Rough sleepers/street homeless. Clients must have a local connection with the area. Referral criteria: Self referral. Drop-in sessions limited to first 6 people in the morning session and the first 4 in the afternoon. Landlord services: Financial incentives for landlords include a guarantee in place of a deposit and 4 week’s rent in advance. Tenancy agreements provided. Inventory services. Mediation with tenants. Advice on legal issues. Housing Benefit fast track service. Location of landlords’ properties: London Borough of Barnet. Opening hours: Monday: Drop-in 10am - 1pm, 2pm - 4pm Wednesday: Drop-in 10am - 1pm, 2pm - 4pm Friday: Drop-in 10am - 1pm, 2pm - 4pm Office hours Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm Type of organisation: Registered Charity 266870

Last updated: 9/5/2007

Local authority where based: Barnet LB Barnet Homeseeker’s Rent Deposit Scheme 1255 High Road Whetstone London N20 0EJ

Phone:

020 8359 4797 Homeseekers

Project summary: 2 schemes: private sector leasing scheme and rent deposit scheme. Client services: Rent deposit scheme for single people and families who are homeless or threatened with homelessness and in priority need. Properties can be located by tenants or provided by the scheme. If properties are found outside the London Borough of Barnet, a cash deposit only is payable. Temporary accommodation in the private sector provided to homeless families through a leasing scheme. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Barnet. Client group: Single people and families who are homeless or threatened with homelessness and in priority need. Referral criteria: Referrals only from the LB Barnet Housing Advice Team. Landlord services: A temporary pilot rent deposit scheme providing four weeks' rent as a non-returnable incentive and four weeks' rent in advance for properties in Barnet, and an incentive only for properties in other boroughs. Support and advice for landlords about type of tenancy agreement, regulation safety checks, housing benefit, household inventory and furniture. Properties must be in good order, are subject to safety checks. Landlords remain responsible for managing the tenancy and maintaining the property. Location of landlords’ properties: Anywhere in the UK. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 4pm Tuesday: 9am - 4pm Thursday: 9am - 4pm Friday: 9am - 4pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 25/5/2007

Local authority where based: Bexley LB Bexley Prevention & Assessment Team - Rent Direct Scheme Bexley Civic Offices Broadway Bexleyheath DA6 7LB

Phone: Fax: Website:

020 8294 6486 020 8294 6863 www.bexley.gov.uk

Project summary: Deposit bond scheme for single people and families with dependent children who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. Client services: Rent deposit bond scheme for single people and families with dependant children who are homeless or threatened with homelessness and on benefits or a low income. Provides access to properties across the borough. Prospective tenants can find their own property, or can be matched to a property. Properties must be of a suitable size. Pre-tenancy rent determination provided to show the maximum amount to rent which could be paid by Housing Benefit. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Bexley. Client group: Single people and families with dependent children who are homeless or threatened with homelessness, on benefits or a low income and with a local connection with LB Bexley. Referral criteria: Referrals from LB Bexley homelessness prevention team, drug intervention teams or Probation Services. Landlord services: Deposit bond scheme linking prospective tenants with landlords and providing landlords with a guarantee for up to 1 year against the cost of damage to or theft from their properties. Housing Benefit fast track service. Mediation for any disputes between the landlord and tenant. Help to ensure a smooth landlord/tenant relationship, with advice on housing law. Properties must have a valid gas safety certificate and are typically let as an Assured Shorthold Tenancy. Properties should be available for at least 2 years, but shorter periods may be agreed. Location of landlords’ properties: London Borough of Bexley. Opening hours: Monday: 10am - 5pm Tuesday: 10am - 5pm Wednesday: 1pm - 5pm Thursday: 10am - 5pm Friday: 10am - 5pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 14/5/2007

Local authority where based: Brent LB Brent Private Housing Information Unit Mahatma Gandhi House 34 Wembley Hill Road Wembley HA9 8AD

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 8937 2777 020 8937 2789 [email protected] www.brent.gov.uk/phiu

Project summary: Open access rent deposit scheme for people entitled to housing benefit. Client services: Rent deposit scheme for people wanting accommodation in the London Borough of Brent. Applicants must find a property themselves. The property will be inspected by the scheme. Help with Housing Benefit applications provided through the Brent One Stop Shop. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Brent. Client group: Anyone on benefits or a low income and entitled to full Housing Benefit. Referral criteria: Self referral or agency referral. Landlord services: Guarantee in place of rent to the value of 4 week’s rent. Tenants are vetted to ensure they have no history of rent arrears. Tenancy agreements and inventory services provided. Housing Benefit fast track service for participating landlords. Location of landlords’ properties: London Borough of Brent. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 5pm Tuesday: 9am - 5pm Wednesday: 9am - 5pm Thursday: 9am - 5pm Friday: 9am - 5pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 9/5/2007

Local authority where based: Bromley LB Bromley Bond Guarantee Scheme Adult and Community Services Joseph Lancaster Hall Civic Centre, Rafford Way Bromley BR1 3UH

Phone: Switchboard: Fax: Website:

020 8313 4675 020 8464 3333 020 8461 7688 www.bromley.gov.uk

Project summary: Bond guarantee scheme, cash deposit scheme and direct let scheme for vulnerable single people and families deemed to be in housing need. Client services: Rent deposit scheme, bond guarantee and direct let scheme to help people into private rented accommodation. Housing Benefit appointments to enable Housing Benefit claims to be fast tracked. Referral to CABx for benefits advice. Referral to furniture projects for help with furniture where needed. Tenancy sustainment officer available to provide support to landlord and tenants, including advice and mediation. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Bromley. Client group: Single parents or families on a low income. Referral criteria: Mostly from Bromley Housing Teams, but referrals also accepted from Social Services Departments and the Bromley Community Drug Project. Landlord services: Bond guarantee scheme and rent deposit scheme providing a deposit to the value of 1 months rent. Direct Let scheme. Schemes run for a minimum of 12 months. Properties are inspected to ensure compliance with health and safety standards. Set up tenancies. Assess clients for suitability for private rented schemes. Housing Benefit fast track scheme. Housing Benefit is paid direct to the landlord, unless the landlord requests that payment is made to the tenant. Works in partnership with 2 Housing Groups who operate a private leasing scheme on behalf of the London Borough of Bromley. The Housing Groups acquire and manage properties for landlords for between 3 and 5 years. Location of landlords’ properties: London Borough of Bromley. Opening hours: Monday: 8.45am - 5pm Tuesday: 8.45am - 5pm Wednesday: 8.45am - 5pm Thursday: 8.45am - 5pm Friday: 8.45am - 5pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 17/9/2007

Local authority where based: Camden LB Camden Housing Options & Advice - Private Rented Scheme Bidborough House 20 Mabledon Place London WC1H 9BF

Phone: Fax: Website:

020 7974 5801 020 7974 5843 www.camden.gov.uk

Project summary: 3 schemes: private renting scheme and flat share scheme. Deposit guarantee scheme for vulnerable people not in priority need. Client services: Scheme to help house people in private rented accommodation for people with a local connection with London Borough of Camden who are homeless or threatened with homelessness and in priority need of housing. This scheme is also open to London Borough of Camden Council Tenants who want to move. Deposit guarantee scheme for vulnerable people not in priority need. Scheme is limited to the number of properties available and applicants must be flexible about the area they want to live in. Flatshare scheme for single people aged under 25 years who live in a Camden Registered Social Landlord hostel and are ready for moveon accommodation. Help with obtaining Housing Benefit. Rent negotiation to Housing Benefit levels and referral to furniture projects and referral to floating support for all schemes. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Camden. Client group: Single people and families in Camden who are homeless or threatened with homelessness and in priority need and who have a local connection with Camden. Referral criteria: Self referral or agency referral. Contact by telephone for an appointment. Landlord services: Financial incentives offered to landlords providing properties to rent and to landlords providing flat shares. Landlords must come through the London Borough of Camden’s Housing Options development team. Deposit guarantee scheme guarantees a deposit of £700 for vulnerable people who are not in priority need but who are able to sustain a tenancy. Housing Options development team provides a service to landlords advertising their properties and offering help setting rent levels and assistance with setting up tenancies for people on benefits. Troubleshooting service for landlords offering help for with issues around benefits/disrepair, tenancy renewal etc. Location of landlords’ properties: Most properties are in London but can be in any area of the UK. Opening hours: Monday: 9.30am-3pm drop-in Tuesday: 9.30am-3pm drop-in Wednesday: 9.30am-12.30pm Somali speakers Thursday: 9.30am-3pm drop-in 9.30am-3pm drop-in Friday: Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 9/5/2007

Local authority where based: City of London City of London Housing Department Rent Deposit Scheme West Wing St Alphage House St Alphage Gardens London EC2Y 5DA

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 7332 1804 020 7332 3637 [email protected] www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

Project summary: Rent deposit scheme for people who are homeless, threatened with homelessness and on a low income. Client services: Rent deposit scheme offering one month's rent in advance and a cash deposit for landlords. Applicants must locate their own property and find a landlord willing to accept Housing Benefit. Advice offered on Housing Benefit applications. Referral to furniture schemes. Access to tenancy support. Applicants to this scheme do not have to be in priority need. Client’s local connection: City of London. Client group: People who are homeless or threatened with homelessness and have a local connection with the City of London. Applicants must have a low income of under £20K per annum for single people and £27K for families. Referral criteria: Self referral. Landlord services: Rent deposit scheme offering one month's rent in advance and a cash deposit for landlords. Location of landlords’ properties: All London. Opening hours: Monday: 9.15am - 5pm Tuesday: 9.15am - 5pm Wednesday: 9.15am - 5pm Thursday: 9.15am - 5pm Friday: 9.15am - 5pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 9/5/2007

Local authority where based: Enfield LB Enfield Housing Advice Team - Homefinders John Wilkes House 79 High Street Ponders End Enfield EN3 4EN

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 8379 4750 020 8379 4847 [email protected] www.enfield.gov.uk

Project summary: Rent deposit scheme for families in priority need. Client services: Cash deposit and incentive scheme enabling people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness to be rehoused in private rented accommodation managed by estate agents or lettings agents. Clients may find their own property or be matched to a property available to the scheme. Help with Housing Benefit claims. Once housed via the scheme, support for tenants is available through a tenancy sustainment team. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Enfield. Client group: Single people and families who are homeless or threatened with homelessness and in priority need of housing. Referral criteria: Agency referral only from LB Enfield homelessness services. Landlord services: Rent deposit scheme working with estate agents, offering a returnable cash deposit of one month's rent plus an incentive payment of one month's rent. The incentive payment is paid initially as rent in advance and does not have to be returned at the end of the tenancy. Tenancies must be Assured Shorthold Tenancies for a minimum of 12 months. Properties are inspected by the scheme and an inventory is taken, backed by photographic evidence. The partner estate agents arrange the signing of the rent agreement with the tenant. Properties are subject to a pre-tenancy determination of rent. Housing Benefit fast track system with a dedicated Housing Benefit officer. Location of landlords’ properties: Any London borough. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 4pm Tuesday: 9am - 4pm Wednesday: 9am - 4pm Thursday: 9am - 4pm Friday: 9am - 4pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 25/9/2007

Local authority where based: Greenwich Davish Enterprise Development Centre 33 Charlton Dene Charlton London SE7 7BU

Phone: Fax: Email:

020 8555 8917 Helpline 020 8856 0464 [email protected]

Project summary: Rent guarantee scheme and resettlement scheme for people in extreme need, particularly homeless people and people from black and minority ethnic backgrounds. Client services: Rent deposit guarantee and resettlement schemes for people in extreme need. Befriending and outreach project actively targets people in need on the streets and provides support and resettlement services. Tenancy support. Advice and information on housing, benefits, money and debt. Pre-vocational and vocational training includes basic skills, ESOL, literacy, numeracy and IT training. 24 hour emergency helpline. Office also at 61 Broadway, Stratford London E15 4BQ. Client’s local connection: All London, particularly Greenwich and surrounding areas. Client group: Street homeless people, people served with a notice of eviction and imminently about to be made homeless. Clients must be on benefits or on a low income. Referral criteria: Local authorities refer to the scheme. Referrals also from the scheme's outreach and befriending activities and voluntary organisations. Landlord services: Rent deposit guarantee scheme offering a guarantee in place of rent. Rent is paid by the scheme to the landlord for 3 to 6 months via the scheme. Tenant's Housing Benefit is paid directly to the scheme. After 6 months, the practical management of the tenancy transfers to landlords and tenants directly. The scheme tries, where possible, to make up Housing Benefit shortfalls through charitable donations. Location of landlords’ properties: All London. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 5pm Tuesday: 9am - 5pm Wednesday: 9am - 5pm Thursday: 9am - 5pm Friday: 9am - 5pm Saturday: Emergencies and appts only Sunday: Emergencies only Office hours Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm Type of organisation: Registered Charity 1018318

Last updated: 9/5/2007

Local authority where based: Greenwich LB Greenwich Housing Aid Centre Rent Deposit 125 Powis Street Woolwich London SE18 6NL

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 8921 2610 or 2618 020 8921 2636 [email protected] www.greenwich.gov.uk

Project summary: Rent guarantee bond scheme for families and some single, vulnerable people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. Client services: Rent deposit guarantee scheme. Bonds for families, and single, vulnerable people. Clients find their own properties, which can be located anywhere in the UK. Properties need to be suitable and affordable ie within Housing Benefit limits. Any problems with tenancies are referred to Housing Aid Centre for advice and assistance. Help with Housing Benefit forms for priority fast track determination for people moving into properties in London Borough of Greenwich only. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Greenwich. Client group: Housing assistance for priority homelessness applicants and other client groups. Applicants must have lived in the borough for at least 6 months, except people fleeing domestic violence. Referral criteria: Referral from the LB Greenwich homelessness service, Housing Advice Service or resettlement service only. No self referral. Landlord services: Bond guarantee scheme for landlords, usually for 1 year. Sometimes rent in advance or cash deposits are provided. A non-refundable incentive may be paid if guarantees rather than cash have been given and there may be a payment towards inventory costs and dog homing fees. Usually an adviser will liaise with Housing Benefit for priority claims. Landlords encouraged to join the Landlord Accreditation Scheme/Training for help with tenancy issues eg evictions. Location of landlords’ properties: Anywhere in the UK. Opening hours: Monday: 9.30am - 4pm Tuesday: 9.30am - 4pm Wednesday: 1pm - 4.30pm Thursday: 9.30am - 4pm Friday: 9.30am - 4pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 10/5/2007

Local authority where based: Hackney LB Hackney Housing Advice Centre - Rent Deposit Scheme Christopher Addison House 72 Wilton Way London E8 1BJ

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 8356 2929 Homelessness 020 8356 4431 [email protected] www.hackney.gov.uk

Project summary: Cash deposit and rent in advance scheme for families in priority need and single people not in priority need. Client services: Cash deposit and rent in advance scheme for families who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. Support provided with finding private rented sector accommodation, Housing Benefit applications, benefits checks, applications for community care grants and budgeting loans, referrals to furniture projects. Information packs provided on the local area. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Hackney. Client group: Families who are homeless and in priority need. Single people not in priority need. Referral criteria: Referrals from LB Hackney Housing Advice and Options teams. Landlord services: Cash deposit scheme for 4 week’s rent and 4 week’s rent in advance for landlords providing Assured Shorthold Tenancies for a minimum of 12 months. Fast track Housing Benefit service. Documents for Housing Benefit applications are verified by the rent deposit scheme. Pretenancy determinations of rent are carried out. Tenancies are managed on behalf of the landlord and landlords are provided with advice and mediation services. Landlords forum provides advice and updates on new legislation. Location of landlords’ properties: London Borough of Hackney. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 4pm Tuesday: 9am - 4pm Thursday: 9am - 4pm Friday: 9am - 4pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 16/5/2007

Local authority where based: Hackney Quaker Social Action Network Homelink 45-47 Blyth Street Bethnal Green London E2 6LN

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 7729 7573 020 7729 7589 [email protected] www.qsa.com

Project summary: Rent deposit scheme for non-priority homeless people from the London Boroughs of Hackney, Haringey and Tower Hamlets. Client services: Help with accessing private rented accommodation for single people and couples without children who are homeless or threatened with homeless but not in priority need. Applicants must have a local connection with one of the three referring boroughs. Applicants are given a list of participating landlords and properties and must find a suitable property from that list. Help provided with Housing Benefit and Community Care Grant applications. Advice on benefits entitlements. Referral to furniture projects for low cost recycled furniture. Links with a Credit Union. Client’s local connection: Applicants must have a local connection with London Boroughs of Tower Hamlets, Hackney or Haringey. Client group: Single people and couples who are homeless or threatened with homelessness, but not in priority need. Referral criteria: Referral from London Boroughs of Tower Hamlets, Hackney and Haringey housing services only. Landlord services: Scheme providing a rent guarantee or cash deposit and 1 months rent in advance to landlords willing to let their properties to homeless people claiming Housing Benefit. Landlords are actively sought to join the scheme. Tenancy agreements provided. Housing Benefit fast track system for properties in Tower Hamlets, with a dedicated Housing Benefit worker in the local authority. Location of landlords’ properties: Landlords' properties can be anywhere within the M25. Opening hours: Monday: 10am -1pm, 2pm - 4pm Tuesday: 10am -1pm, 2pm - 4pm Wednesday: 10am -1pm, 2pm - 4pm Thursday: 10am -1pm, 2pm - 4pm Friday: 10am -1pm, 2pm - 4pm Type of organisation: Registered Charity 1069157

Last updated: 16/5/2007

Local authority where based: Hammersmith & Fulham LB Hammersmith and Fulham Housing Options & Advice - Direct Lettings Team First Floor Housing Centre 77 Glenthorne Road London W6 0LJ

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 8753 4166 or 4144 020 8753 4133 [email protected] www.lbhf.gov.uk

Project summary: Local authority rent deposit scheme. Property leasing scheme in partnership with Registered Social Landlords. Client services: Private rented sector deposit scheme and an accommodation scheme via Housing Associations using leased private sector properties for families and single people who are in housing need, eligible for assistance, in priority need and have low support requirements. Help with Housing Benefit applications. Tenancy advice/support and mediation. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. Client group: Families and single people who are in housing need, eligible for assistance, in priority need and have low support requirement. Applicants must have no significant history of rent arrears, antisocial behaviour or eviction. Referral criteria: Referrals from LB Hammersmith and Fulham housing teams, domestic violence support, and single homeless project. Landlord services: Rent deposit scheme for landlords prepared to let to people claiming Housing Benefits. Rent deposit guarantee to the value of 1 month's rent for the life of the tenancy. Non-refundable financial incentives paid up front to eligible landlords. Competitive rents. Free advice on managing the tenancy. No lettings agents or administration fees. Assured Shorthold Tenancies for a minimum of 12 months. Housing Benefit fast track service with a dedicated Housing Benefit officer for in-borough claims/properties. Access to ‘Better Homes Grant’. Leasing scheme in partnership with registered Social landlords. Location of landlords’ properties: Anywhere in UK. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 5pm Tuesday: 9am - 5pm Wednesday: 9am - 5pm Thursday: 9am - 5pm Friday: 9am - 5pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 17/9/2007

Local authority where based: Haringey LB Haringey Urban Environment - Housing Services - Prevention and Options Apex House 820 Seven Sisters Road London N15 5PQ

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 8489 4309 020 8489 4292 [email protected] www.haringey.gov.uk

Project summary: Rent deposit scheme for families and single people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. Client services: Rent deposit scheme for families and single people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness, including people with alcohol and drug problems. Tenancy support services. Accredited lettings scheme. Appointments available Monday-Friday 9.30am - 4pm. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Haringey. Client group: Rent deposit scheme for families and single people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness, including people with alcohol and drug problems. Referral criteria: Referrals from London Borough of Haringey homelessness services. Landlord services: Rent deposit scheme provides a cash deposit of 1 month's rent plus 1 month's rent in advance. Housing Benefit fast track service with two dedicated Housing Benefit staff. Accredited landlord scheme provides financial incentives for landlords to rent to homeless people. Landlords must provide contracts for 1 year. Scheme to provide Assured Shorthold Tenancies to people with drug and alcohol problems, working closely with local drug and alcohol agencies. Location of landlords’ properties: London Borough of Haringey. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 5pm Tuesday: 9am - 5pm Wednesday: 9am - 5pm Thursday: 9am - 5pm Friday: 9am - 5pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 14/5/2007

Local authority where based: Harrow LB Harrow Finders Fee Scheme Housing Services PO Box 65 Civic Centre Harrow HA1 2XG

Phone: Website:

020 8424 1455 Enquiries www.harrow.gov.uk

Project summary: Fee Finder scheme for families referred from Harrow homelessness services. Client services: Initiative to help families find accommodation in the private rented sector. Clients may find their own properties anywhere in the country, or be matched to properties in the Harrow scheme. Fast track help with Housing Benefit for properties in London Borough of Harrow. Referrals to Housing Advice Centre for any queries or problems with tenancies. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Harrow. Client group: People who are homeless or threatened with homelessness and in priority need. Referral criteria: Referrals from LB Harrow homelessness services only. Landlord services: Initiative to encourage landlords to offer their properties to families eligible for Housing Benefit and threatened with homelessness. Financial incentive of a one-off payment of a 'finders fee', typically amounting to £850. Landlords must agree to a pre-tenancy rent determination to ensure affordability of rent for tenants. Housing Benefit fast track scheme. Properties are subject to safety standards and inspection. Location of landlords’ properties: Most properties are located in Harrow. Properties may be located anywhere in the UK. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 5pm Tuesday: 9am - 5pm Wednesday: Emergencies only Thursday: 9am - 5pm Friday: 9am - 5pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 11/5/2007

Local authority where based: Hillingdon LB Hillingdon Housing Advice Centre 2E/09 Civic Centre High Street Uxbridge UB8 1UW

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

01895 250147 Contact Centre 01895 277340 [email protected] www.hillingdon.gov.uk

Project summary: Finders Fee scheme for homeless people in priority need. Client services: Help with accessing the private rented sector through a 'Finders Fee' scheme for landlords. Homeless prevention fund may be used to help with quick access to a cash rent deposit, which may be returned to the tenant so that they can use it to access further private rental accommodation. Referral to Housing Options to try to maximise income, with a benefits check available. Short term floating support for up to 20 people in a Finder Fee tenancy, providing support with issues around the move and settling in to the new property and area. Signposting to other support services for specific issues. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Hillingdon. Client group: Homeless people in priority need. Single people aged over 25 and families. Referral criteria: Referrals from LB Hillingdon Housing Options and Emergency Housing Unit. Landlord services: 'Finders fee' incentive scheme for landlords. Landlords are provided with a non-refundable fee in return for housing homeless people on Housing Benefit in their properties. The fee varies according to size of property. Landlord liaison officer provides mediation on a range of landlord and tenant issues, including disputes over repairs and rent arrears. Basic legal advice provided for landlords. Housing Benefit fast track service with a designated team of 6 people. Properties in the scheme are subject to inspection by a property surveyor and must conform to health and safety standards. Gas and electricity safety certificates are required. Landlords are checked eg to see if any injunctions have been granted and for their legal right to the property. Location of landlords’ properties: Most landlord's properties are in the London Borough of Hillingdon, but properties may also be outside the borough. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 4.30pm Tuesday: 9am - 4.30pm Wednesday: 1pm - 4.30pm Thursday: 9am - 4.30pm Friday: 9am - 4.30pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 16/5/2007

Local authority where based: Hounslow LB Hounslow Housing Advice Service - Deposit Scheme Civic Centre Lampton Road Hounslow TW3 4DN

Phone: Fax: Website:

020 8583 3844 020 8583 3990 www.hounslow.gov.uk

Project summary: Rent deposit scheme for homeless families in priority need and single people prioritised according to housing need. Client services: Help with accessing private rented accommodation, including a rent deposit scheme. Tenants must be eligible to go on Hounslow Council’s Housing Register, be threatened with homelessness and have a local connection. Rent negotiation. Tenant/landlord mediation for all property issues to ensure the successful sustainment of a tenancy. Return of rent deposit issues. Action taken against landlords who do not return deposits when tenant moves out. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Hounslow. Client group: Homeless families in priority need and single people prioritised according to housing need. Referral criteria: Referrals from LB Hounslow homelessness services. Landlord services: Cash deposit scheme for private landlords willing to accept homeless people on Housing Benefit. Deposit paid after tenant moves in and Housing Benefit is claimed. Pre-determination of rent, health and safety standards inspections and gas safety certificates required. (Smoke alarms are required, asbestos must be removed and gardens made safe). Inventory services provided. Energy saving advice for landlords. Housing Benefit fast track service with a dedicated Housing Benefit assessment officer with assessment in 3-4 weeks. Out of borough Housing Benefit fast track referrals accepted from other rent deposit scheme applicants moving into Hounslow. Location of landlords’ properties: London Borough of Hounslow Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 4pm Tuesday: 9am - 4pm Wednesday: 1pm - 4pm Thursday: 9am - 4pm Friday: 9am - 4pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 16/5/2007

Local authority where based: Islington Hope Worldwide Two Step 360 City Road London EC1V 2PY

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 7713 7655 020 7812 1236 [email protected] www.hopeworldwide.org.uk

Project summary: Housing programme for single homeless people, with a scheme to access the private rented sector. Client services: Housing programme for single homeless people in London, with an emergency housing scheme in the homes of volunteers. Help with obtaining housing in the private rented sector. Help applying for Crisis Loans to cover deposits. Help with negotiating deposit-free lettings with selected landlords. Mentoring scheme for tenants provides advice and support, and mediation with landlords. Client’s local connection: All London. Client group: Single, non-priority homeless, rough sleepers without high support needs: eg people who have experienced relationship breakdowns. Referral criteria: Referral from outreach programmes, local authorities, charitable organisations or self referral. Landlord services: Scheme to house vulnerable people in the private rented sector and maintain sustained tenancies. The scheme started as a rent deposit scheme, but now provides very few deposits. Instead, agreements may be reached with landlords for deposits to be paid over an extended period of time. Tenants are screened by the service to help ensure that the scheme has a proven track record with landlords all over London in successfully housing vulnerable people. Location of landlords’ properties: All London. Opening hours: Monday: 10am - 4pm Tuesday: 10am - 4pm Wednesday: 10am - 4pm Thursday: 10am - 4pm Friday: 10am - 4pm Type of organisation: Registered Charity No. 1044930

Last updated: 11/05/2007

Local authority where based: Islington LB Islington Housing Aid Centre 38 Devonia Road Islington London N1 8UY

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 7527 6321 Contact Centre 020 7527 6307 [email protected] www.islington.gov.uk

Project summary: Rent deposit scheme for homeless people who are in priority need. Client services: Incentive scheme to help people into private rent accommodation. Most use is by families and single people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness, eligible (have recourse to public funds) in priority need, have not become homeless intentionally and have a local connection with the area. Other client groups include clients involved in Multi-agency panel, offenders being resettled into the community and people with substance abuse problems who have completed a programme. The programme is not suitable for people who cannot sustain a tenancy. The scheme encourages people to find their own accommodation and is a client led operation. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Islington. Client group: Single people and families who are homeless or threatened with homelessness, and in priority need. Referral criteria: Referrals from LB Islington Housing Advice and Options, partnership organisions within the borough. Landlord services: This is an Incentive Scheme offered to landlords/estate agents willing to let private rented accommodation to households who are homeless. The amount of incentive offered varies according to the location of the property (in or outside of the borough). Landlords and tenants can be matched via the scheme or tenants can find their own properties. A pre-tenancy determination of rent for Housing Benefit is compulsory. Housing Benefit is paid direct to the landlord. Tenancies are Assured Shorthold Tenancies for a minimum of 12 months. Accredited landlords are preferred. The scheme has an arrangement with the Housing Benefit department in Islington with a dedicated Housing Benefit worker. Properties are inspected where possible. For properties outside the M25 area, the local housing office may be asked to do the inspection. NB this scheme is currently under review. Location of landlords’ properties: Landlords can be anywhere in the UK. Some are in Islington. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 4pm Tuesday: 9am - 4pm Wednesday: 12 noon - 4pm Thursday: 9am - 4pm Friday: 9am - 4pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 17/9/2007

Local authority where based: Kensington & Chelsea RB Kensington & Chelsea Housing Initiative Team Room 247, Second Floor Kensington Town Hall Hornton Street London W8 7NX

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 7361 3008 Contact Centre 020 7361 3861 [email protected] www.rbkc.gov.uk

Project summary: Cash deposit scheme and limited 'Finders Fee' scheme for people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness and in priority need. Client services: Rent deposit scheme for families and single people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. The scheme operates as part of a homelessness prevention strategy. Tenants may be housed in properties available to the scheme, or may find their own property. Client’s local connection: Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Client group: Rent deposit scheme for families and single people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. Referral criteria: Referrals from RB Kensington & Chelsea homelessness services. Landlord services: 'Lets start' rent deposit scheme offering a cash deposit of 4 week’s rent and 4 week’s rent in advance. Pre-tenancy determination of rent. May, in limited circumstances, offer a 'finders fee' of varying amounts for some landlords up to about £750. 14 day Housing Benefit fast track system with dedicated Housing Benefit officer. Property visits. Landlord liaison officer helps with landlord-tenant issues. Landlords and estate agents are pro-actively contacted and encouraged to join the scheme, which is also heavily advertised. Location of landlords’ properties: RB Kensington and Chelsea. Some out of borough placements. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 4.45pm Tuesday: 9am - 4.45pm Wednesday: 12 noon - 4.45pm Thursday: 9am - 4.45pm Friday: 9am - 4.15pm Office hours Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 25/5/2007

Local authority where based: Kingston-upon-Thames Tenant Finder Service - Royal Borough of Kingston-upon-Thames Guildhall Kingston upon Thames KT1 1EU

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 8547 5491 020 8547 4753 [email protected] www.kingston.gov.uk

Project summary: The Tenant Finder Service is a FREE letting service for landlords offering a cash deposit (deposit guarantee being introduced), and rent in advance to landlords. It aims to support and encourage landlords to let good quality accommodation to households who need somewhere to live, predominantly families with children who live and/or work in Kingston and who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. Many households will have chosen to have a settled home in the private sector either to prevent homelessness or as a ‘qualifying offer’ as an alternative to a Council or other Socail Landord tenancy. Client services: Loan for and one month's rent in advance and a deposit (equal to one months rent or a deposit guarantee) to people who are homeless, or threatened with homelessness to help them access good quality housing in the private rented sector. The mechanism for repayment of the loan is by recovery of the deposit and by way of rent account reconciliation at the end of the tenancy, households are responsible for maintaining regular affordable weekly payments during their tenancy to minimise any risk of shortfall when the tenancy comes to an end. Any deposit retained by a landlord is recoverable from the tenant under the terms of the loan. Client’s local connection: Royal Borough of Kingston-upon-Thames Client group: People who are homeless or threatened with homelessness (unintentionally) with a priority need and a local connection to the area. Referral criteria: No direct access - Referrals from RB Kingston Housing Advice Service, or RB Kingston Temporary Accommodation Unit. Households currently in temporary accommodation with RB Kingston and to whom the Authority has accepted a duty under homeless legislation can approach Kingston’s ‘Home Finder Service’ for assistance to secure a letting in the private sector as a’qualifing offer’. Landlord services: The Tenant Finder Service (TFS) provides one month's rent in advance and a deposit (equal to one months rent or a deposit guarantee) to private sector landlords. The service advertises for landlords locally and provide free help and advice throughout the letting period. TFS prepare an Assured Shorthold Tenancy for a minimum of 12 months, set up the tenancy, provide a detailed schedule of condition & inventory with photographic evidence, and carry out the check-out inspection with tenants and landlord present. Health and safety checks including valid CORGI gas and NICEIC electricity safety certificates. Fast track Housing Benefit service, with weekly liasion meetings with the Housing Benefit department. Location of landlords’ properties: Mainly Kingston-upon-Thames, but also some in neighbouring local authority areas. Opening hours: Monday: 8.45am - 5pm Tuesday: 8.45am - 5pm Wednesday: 8.45am - 5pm Thursday: 8.45am - 5pm Friday: 8.45am - 4.45pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 17/9/2007

Local authority where based: Lambeth LB Lambeth Housing Options and Advice Unit 2-7 Town Hall Parade Brixton London SW2 1RP

Phone: Fax: Website:

020 7926 4200 020 7926 4254 www.lambeth.gov.uk

Project summary: Rent deposit scheme for homeless people in priority need. Customers must meet the chriteria for assistance and cannot approach Lettings First directly. Client services: Referrals via the Housing Options and Advice Unit to 'Lettings First', a Lambeth Council agency set-up to work in the private rented sector and administer the rent deposit scheme. Lettings First - 0845 064 0000. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Lambeth. Client group: People who are homeless or threatened with homelessness and in priority need. Referral criteria: Referrals from LB Lambeth Housing Options and Advice Unit. Landlord services: Cash deposit scheme managed by Lambeth Council’s Lettings First agency. Rent deposits of up to £1,500 paid to landlords or estate agents letting properties to Lambeth homelessness applicants. Properties can be anywhere in the country. Properties are let on a 12 month Assured Shorthold Tenancy agreement. Housing Benefit fast track service available. Location of landlords’ properties: Any area in the UK. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 3pm Tuesday: 9am - 3pm Wednesday: 9am - 12 noon Thursday: 9am - 3pm Friday: 9am - 3pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 17/9/2007

Local authority where based: Merton LB Merton Housing Solutions - Rent Deposit Schemes 114 London Road London Road Morden SM4 5AX

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 8274 5765/5769 020 8542 8434 @merton.gov.uk www.merton.gov.uk

Project summary: Guarantee in place of deposit scheme for families in priority need threatened with homelessness. Client services: Landlord and tenant matching service for families threatened with homelessness who wish to be rehoused in the private rented sector. Tenants are matched to suitable properties and assisted with Housing Benefit applications. Tenants may also find their own property providing they obtain a PTD on the property which matches the rent figure on the tenancy agreement. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Merton. Client group: Families in priority need threatened with homelessness. Referral criteria: Referrals from LB Merton homelessness and housing advice services only. Landlord services: Guarantee in place of deposit and tenant finding scheme for landlords in Merton. 1 month's rent held by to provide a guarantee in case of damage to the property. Incentive fee paid to the landlord ranging from £200-£500 depending on the length of tenancy. Tenancy agreements can be for 1, 2, 3 or 5 years. Landlords are charged an admin fee of £100 per tenancy. Agreements are subject to a pre-tenancy determination of rent, and gas and electricity safety certificates. Tenancy agreements provided by the scheme. Tenancies are managed by landlords. Housing Benefit fast track service with a designated officer. Location of landlords’ properties: London Borough of Merton only, except deposit only cases. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 5pm Tuesday: 9am - 5pm Wednesday: 9am - 5pm Thursday: 9am - 5pm Friday: 9am - 5pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 17/9/2007

Local authority where based: Newham LB Newham Housing Options Centre 3 Pragel Street Plaistow London E13 9HB

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 8430 2000 Ext 38400/38401 020 8557 8621 [email protected] www.newham.gov.uk

Project summary: Bond scheme providing a guarantee in place of a deposit for homeless people in priority need. Client services: Bond scheme to assist families and single people who are homeless and in priority need access furnished private rented accommodation through accredited landlords and agents. Help with Housing Benefit claims. Help with obtaining a top-up of Housing Benefit to meet any shortfall between the determined level of rent and Housing Benefit payment may be available through Housing Benefit discretionary payments. (NB these are not available for rent arrears). Mediation service for tenants in dispute with landlords is available through a separate team (to avoid a conflict of interest with the landlord scheme). Client’s local connection: London Borough of Newham. Client group: People who are homeless and in priority need. Referral criteria: Referrals from LB Newham Housing Options service. Landlord services: Bond scheme providing a guarantee in place of a deposit to the value of 4 week’s rent and an incentive payment to private sector landlords. Incentive payment is £300 for 2 bed properties, £200 for all other properties. Mediation service for landlords in dispute with tenants. Landlords must provide an inventory, gas and electricity safety certificates and are subject to a pretenancy determination of rent. Housing Benefit fast track service. Landlords outside of Newham are subject to a Land Registry search to determine ownership. Properties within the scheme are actively sought via accredited agents and landlords. The London Borough of Newham runs a landlord and agent accreditation scheme, provides Landlords Forums each quarter and free training for member landlords. Also work with other London Boroughs on a Londonwide landlord accreditation scheme. Promote joint working with Redbridge, Havering, Barking & Dagenham. Location of landlords’ properties: Anywhere in the UK. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 3.30pm Tuesday: 9am - 3.30pm Wednesday: 1pm - 3.30pm Thursday: 9am - 3.30pm Friday: 9am - 3.30pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 24/5/2007

Local authority where based: Redbridge LB Redbridge Housing Advice Centre 17-23 Clements Road Ilford IG1 1AG

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 8708 4002/3 020 8708 4477 [email protected] www.redbridge.gov.uk

Project summary: Rent deposit scheme for people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. Client services: Rent deposit scheme, mainly for families and offering some help for single people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. Help with Housing Benefit claims and community care grant applications, where needed. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Redbridge. Client group: Single people and families who are homeless or threatened with homelessness and in priority need. Referral criteria: Referrals from the Housing Advice Service. Landlord services: Scheme providing a cash deposit to the value of one month's rent plus one month's rent in advance to landlords willing to rent private accommodation to homeless families. Properties are visited. Pre-tenancy determination of rent required. Housing Benefit fast track system. May consider paying a rent shortfall via Housing Benefit in some, limited circumstances. Location of landlords’ properties: London Borough of Redbridge or out of borough. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 1pm, 2pm - 4.45pm Tuesday: 9am - 1pm, 2pm - 4.45pm Wednesday: 9am - 1pm, 2pm - 4.45pm Thursday: 9am - 1pm, 2pm - 4.45pm Friday: 9am - 1pm, 2pm - 4.45pm Office hours Monday - Friday 8.30am - 5pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 30/5/2007

Local authority where based: Richmond upon Thames Spear Rent Deposit Guarantee Scheme 13 Rosslyn Road Twickenham TW1 2AR

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 8892 7522, 020 8487 5066 020 8404 1482 [email protected] www.spearlondon.org

Project summary: Rent deposit scheme for single people and people in priority need. Client services: Scheme to assist single people and families who are homeless or threatened with homelessness into housing in the private rented sector. Rent in advance required by landlords is paid upfront by the scheme, and repaid to the scheme by the tenant in an agreed payment plan. Resettlement team support provided for people with support needs. Help with Housing Benefit claims. Referral to furniture projects. Signposting support to a range of other services. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames Client group: Single people with support needs who are not in priority need, single people and families who are homeless and in priority need. Referral criteria: Internal referrals from Spear for single homeless clients. Referrals from LB Richmond homeless unit. Landlord services: Scheme offering landlords a guarantee in place of deposit to the value of 4 week’s rent, plus 4 week’s rent in advance and agents fees, if applicable. Set up tenancies on behalf of landlords. Pre-tenancy rent determination required. Advice service for landlords provided in partnership with the London Borough of Richmond. Good relationships with Housing Benefits result in a fast turnaround on applications. Location of landlords’ properties: All London Boroughs. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 5pm Tuesday: 9am - 5pm Wednesday: 9am - 5pm Thursday: 9am - 5pm Friday: 9am - 5pm Type of organisation: Registered Charity

Last updated: 22/05/2007

Local authority where based: Southwark Equinox Bond Scheme - Wandsworth, Lewisham and Southwark c/o Unit 001 Westminster Business Square London SE11 5JA

Phone: Fax: Website:

020 7735 6521 020 7582 8618 www.equinoxcare.org.uk

Project summary: Rent guarantee scheme for single drug users with no dependents. Client services: Rent deposit scheme offering assistance with finding private rented accommodation for single people with drug related problems. Accommodation and landlords are checked. Tenants are matched with suitable properties. Help with claiming benefits, utilities connections and signing tenancy agreements. Regular contact and support once a tenancy is secured, including help with budgeting, debt management and accessing other services. Client’s local connection: London Boroughs of Wandsworth, Southwark and Lewisham. Client group: Single people aged 25+ who do not have any dependents or a partner who will live with them, are accessing or involved in a drug treatment programme, are entitled to full housing benefit and have a local connection with the area. Referral criteria: Agency referrals from drug intervention projects. Landlord services: Scheme offering a guarantee in place of a deposit in the form of a written bond to the value of one month's rent and 1 month's rent in advance. Offers one year's floating support and mediation with tenants. Location of landlords’ properties: Properties are usually within the London Borough of Wandsworth. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 5pm Tuesday: 9am - 5pm Wednesday: 9am - 5pm Thursday: 9am - 5pm Friday: 9am - 5pm Type of organisation: Registered Charity 29694

Last updated: 9/5/2007

Local authority where based: Southwark OSW Transitional Spaces Project 1st Floor Wedge House 36-40 Blackfriars Road London SE1 8PB

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 7902 8688 020 7902 8638 [email protected] www.osw.org.uk/tsp

Project summary: An ‘employment first’ scheme of resettlement, which supports hostel and temporary supported accommodation residents into employment and move-on accommodation in the private rented sector. Client services: Project working with single people aged 17 and over with low or no support needs who are living in hostels or temporary supported accommodation. Applicants are encouraged to enter the programme and to make vital transitions into employment and private rented sector accommodation through a series of distinct financial incentives. Practical and motivational coaching support is provided, including help with jobsearch activities, mentoring, training, financial literacy, budgeting and managing a tenancy. Post resettlement coaching support is also provided for a period of at least 6 months after the client has moved into their new property. Applicants should be eligible to live and work in the UK, be employed or willing and able to engage proactively in finding sustainable employment. Applicants should be willing and able to live in the Private Rented Sector. Client’s local connection: All London. Client group: Single people over the age of 17 who are living in hostels or temporary supported accommodation. Referral criteria: Referral from hostel workers, employment advisers, learning development workers in statutory and voluntary sector agencies. Landlord services: Tenancy Brokerage Service provided by Broadway and Threshold. Location of landlords’ properties: Anywhere in London. Opening hours: Monday: 9.30am - 5pm Tuesday: 9.30am - 5pm Wednesday: 9.30am - 5pm Thursday: 9.30am - 5pm Friday: 9.30am - 5pm Type of organisation: Registered Charity

Last updated: 5/6/2007

Local authority where based: Southwark LB Southwark Housing Options Services - Rent Deposit Scheme 25 Bournemouth Road Peckham London SE15 4UJ

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 7525 5950 Contact Centre 020 7525 4021 [email protected] www.southwark.gov.uk

Project summary: 3 schemes: guarantee in place of deposit for non-priority need families, cash incentive in lieu of deposit for single people and an incentive payment scheme to families moving to other UK locations. Client services: Rent guarantee in place of a deposit scheme for families who are homeless or threatened with homelessness, but not in priority need, including families deemed intentionally homeless. Some families in priority need also use this scheme as a means of securing temporary accommodation while waiting for permanent rehousing. Support with sustaining tenancies is provided by a rent arrears officer and a sustain team. Cash incentive scheme in lieu of a deposit mainly for single people not in priority need who are homeless and who have found their own private rented accommodation. This scheme provides relatively few checks on the property. Incentive scheme provides financial help for families moving to other parts of the country to secure accommodation in the private rented sector. An incentive payment of £1,050 is paid to the tenant to use to assist with the move and to cover rent deposits and other costs. Referrals to this scheme come from the Southwark 'Changing Places' scheme. ‘Southwark Reach’ service to help single people maintain tenancies. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Southwark. Client group: Families not in priority need, families who are intentionally homeless, single people not in priority need. Referral criteria: Self referral or via choice based lettings, or via the housing advice telephone service. Landlord services: Scheme providing a rent guarantee in place of a deposit to the value of 1 month's rent to assist families who opt to go into private rented accommodation. Landlords are actively recruited to the scheme through local advertising. The scheme finds tenants for landlords, inspects properties, provides Assured Shorthold tenancies for 12 months and helps with inventories. Help with Housing Benefit (HB) claims from a dedicated HB officer located in the same premises. Finders Fee scheme provides a non-returnable cash incentive payment in lieu of a deposit to landlords found by single homeless people and willing to accept tenants on HB. Location of landlords’ properties: Southwark, other London Boroughs, UK. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 5pm Tuesday: 9am - 5pm Wednesday: 9am - 5pm Thursday: 9am - 5pm Friday: 9am - 5pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 5/24/2007

Local authority where based: Southwark Broadway Real Lettings Broadway Central Office Chaucer House White Hart Yard London SE1 1NX

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 7089 9500 020 7089 9501 [email protected] www.broadwaylondon.org

Project summary: A private rented sector move on scheme for clients living in Hammersmith & Fulham, Southwark and Westminster. Client services: Housing in private rented accommodation provided for single people who are homeless or living in temporary supported accommodation or linked to Probation/Drug Intervention Programmes in Hammersmith & Fulham, Southwark or the City of Westminster. Tenancies provided are Assured Shorthold Tenancies. Resettlement support is provided in locating a property, viewing and making Housing Benefit claims, transferring existing benefit claims, accessing grants and funding, affordable furnishing and setting up utility accounts, locating local services. Follow-up visits provided after 2 weeks, 6 weeks and 6 month intervals. Clients will be able to contact their resettlement worker and also Broadway’s Helpline for support. Housing may be in the Broadway leasing scheme, property management scheme or in tenancies provided by private sector landlords. Client’s local connection: London Boroughs of Hammersmith & Fulham, Southwark or the City of Westminster. Client group: Single people with with low support needs who are homeless or in temporary supported hostel & supported housing accommodation Clients must be ready to live independently. Referral criteria: Referrals from homelessness agencies in Southwark or Westminster. Hammersmith & Fulham referrals from their Housing Options team only. Landlord services: Broadway (Real Lettings) lease properties for 5 years from private sector landlords across London and pay rent on the properties whether occupied or not. A fee is charged for this service. Broadway/Real Lettings also manage landlord’s properties. Properties are let on Assured Shorthold Tenancies written and supplied or approved by Broadway. Tenant Finders service for landlords offering a no-fee service to tenants, where a tenant is matched to a property on behalf of participating landlords. Landlords are asked to commit to a minimum of 18 months. Location of landlords’ properties: Anywhere in London. Opening hours: Monday: 9am - 5pm Tuesday: 9am - 5pm Wednesday: 9am - 5pm Thursday: 9am - 5pm Friday: 9am - 5pm Type of organisation: Registered Charity

Last updated: 6/7/2007

Local authority where based: Sutton LB Sutton Housing Advice and Options Service Civic Offices St Nicholas Way Sutton SM1 1EA

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 8770 5800 020 8770 5665 [email protected] www.sutton.gov.uk

Project summary: Cash deposit scheme and guarantees in place of deposit scheme for families. Also vulnerable single people with support needs young people and people with alcohol, drug or mental health problems. Client services: Range of support services to help people access the private rented sector. Cash deposit/guarantee in place of deposit scheme for families who are homeless or threatened with homelessness and in priority need. Some assistance for families not in priority need. Support for young people under 24 to access private rented accommodation in houses in multiple occupancy, subject to checks on the standard of the accommodation. Support through a dedicated team for people with alcohol/drug/mental health problems in accessing private rented sector accommodation using Crisis loans to fund rent in advance payments and/or cash deposits. Negotiation with landlords for guarantees in place of deposits for people with support needs. Referrals to CAB for debt and money advice and to floating support and other support services to help people sustain their tenancies. Help with rehousing in the private rented sector for people deemed intentionally homeless. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Sutton. Client group: Vulnerable single people with support needs, including people aged under 24 and people with mental health, alcohol or drug problems. Families threatened with homelessness who are in priority need. Referral criteria: Referrals through Housing Advice and Options Service. Landlord services: Tenant matching service, rent deposit and guarantee in place of deposit scheme for landlords. Cash deposits are refundable back to the scheme at the end of the tenancy. Rents are subject to a pre-tenancy determination of rent and must be kept to an affordable, sustainable level for prospective tenants. Short period lets accepted. Inventory services. Advice on legal issues. Housing Benefit fast track service with a dedicated Housing Benefit officer. Mediation with tenants. End of tenancy property checks carried out where possible to ensure the property is returned to the landlord in good condition. Emphasis on building sustainable tenancies. Location of landlords’ properties: London Borough of Sutton. Occasionally properties considered in other areas. Opening hours: Monday: 9.30am - 4.30pm Tuesday: 9.30am - 4.30pm 11am - 4.30pm Wednesday: Thursday: 9.30am - 4.30pm Friday: 9.30am - 4.30pm Office hours Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 22/5/2007

Local authority where based: Tower Hamlets LB Tower Hamlets Homelessness Services (Borough wide) 62 Roman Road Bethnal Green London E2

Phone: Fax: Website:

020 7364 7474 Customer Liaison Officers 020 7364 7222 www.towerhamlets.gov.uk

Project summary: Local authority rent deposit and guarantee scheme. Client services: Rent deposit scheme for those who are eligible, in priority need (as defined in the Housing Act 1996 part VII) who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. Applicants specify the area they would like to live, either within or outside the borough. Help is given with finding a property, or applicants can find their own. Properties are usually furnished. Links with agents in Barking and Dagenham, Tower Hamlets, Southend on Sea and Essex. Developing information packs on local areas. Single applicants referred to Homelink. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Tower Hamlets. Client group: Those who would meet the criteria under the Housing Act 1996 part VII Referral criteria: Referrals from LB Tower Hamlets homelessness service. Landlord services: Scheme offering a cash deposit or guarantee in place of deposit for 1 month's rent plus 1 month's rent in advance. Housing Benefit fast track service with its own dedicated Housing Benefit officer. Location of landlords’ properties: Anywhere in England. Opening hours: Monday: 9.30am - 4pm Tuesday: 9.30am - 4pm Wednesday: 9.30am - 4pm Thursday: 9.30am - 4pm Friday: 9.30am - 4pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 17/9/2007

Local authority where based: Waltham Forest LB Waltham Forest Housing Advice Unit Housing Services, Cedarwood House 2D Fulbourne Road Walthamstow London E17 4GG

Phone: Fax: Email: Website:

020 8496 5575 020 8496 5431 [email protected] www.lbwf.gov.uk

Project summary: Rent deposit scheme for households who are homeless and in priority need as defined by Homeless Legislation. Client services: Two schemes to help homeless families who are homeless and in priority need access private rented housing. Rent deposit scheme finds properties in the borough for families. The properties are inspected before being offered on the scheme. A waiting list for applicants applies for each type of property. The Rent Deposit Self-help scheme allows families to find their own accommodation anywhere in the UK. A cash deposit may be paid to agents who meet the relevant property standards guidelines required by the scheme. Families rehoused from temporary accommodation are assisted by a Support and Resettlement Team for 6 weeks. Help with crisis loan applications, school applications. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Waltham Forest. Client group: Households only who are homeless, threatened with homelessness and in priority need. Referral criteria: Referrals from the LB Waltham Forest homelessness team. All applicants need to be interviewed before qualifying for the schemes Landlord services: Rent deposit scheme offering landlords a guarantee in place of a cash deposit to the value of 1 month's rent up to £800. Tenant finder service. Assured Shorthold Tenancies are provided for a minimum of 12 months. Rent levels are determined by a pre-tenancy determination of rent. Landlords, tenants and the council each sign a 3 way agreement setting out their responsibilities in respect of the tenancy. Landlord/tenant mediation throughout the first 12 months of the tenancy. Housing Benefit fast track service for properties in the borough. Free Leagal Advice. Location of landlords’ properties: London Borough of Waltham Forest. Opening hours: Monday: 9am – 4.30pm Tuesday: 9am – 4.30pm Wednesday: 9am – 4.30pm Thursday: 9am – 4.30pm Friday: 10am – 4.30pm Type of organisation: Local Authority

Last updated: 17/9/2007

Local authority where based: Wandsworth Threshold SmartMove London 4th Floor Bedford House 215 Balham High Road London SW17 7BQ

Phone: Fax: Website:

020 8682 0898 020 8378 5373 www.crisis.org.uk

Project summary: Managed accommodation scheme providing housing for single homeless people who are not in priority need. Client services: Housing for single people who are not in priority need in accommodation managed by Threshold on behalf of private sector landlords. Tenants are provided with ongoing support and advice to enable them to sustain their tenancies, including help with Housing Benefit claims, assistance with obtaining furniture and other practical issues. Befriending support from volunteers for new tenants who may be living independently for the first time. Some limited referrals to SmartSkills project offering support with life skills training. Client’s local connection: London Borough of Wandsworth. Client group: Single people who are homeless or vulnerably housed, but not in priority need. Referral criteria: Referrals from LB Wandsworth homelessness services. Referrals from hostels through Transitional Spaces scheme. Some referrals from Threshold Housing Advice. Landlord services: Comprehensive housing advice service and access to good quality accommodation in the private sector for homeless or vulnerably housed people. Managed accommodation scheme for landlords, who are provided with a property management service including finding tenants, rent collection, small repairs undertaken, reporting of disrepair issues. Landlords are offered a guarantee in place of a rent deposit to the value of 1 month's rent. Rent in advance paid to landlords until the rent is paid by Housing Benefits. Location of landlords’ properties: London Borough of Wandsworth, Merton, Lambeth, Southwark, Lewisham, Croydon. Opening hours: Monday: 10am - 5pm Tuesday: 10am - 5pm Wednesday: 10am - 5pm Thursday: 10am - 5pm Friday: 10am - 5pm Type of organisation: Registered Charity

Last updated: 23/05/2007