Homelessness and 'social cleansing'

Over recent months, we have heard the term “social cleansing” used in the media more and more. But what exactly does it mean?

“Social cleansing” refers to London councils moving homeless families into accommodation outside London. But why is this happening? A number of factors play a part, including:

• A change in the law, specifically the Localism Act 2011. Under this legislation, local authorities can fully discharge their homelessness duties by offering homeless families accommodation in the private rented sector without their consent.
• The housing benefit cap. The cap limits the amount of housing benefit that can be paid to families living in the private rented sector. It is calculated by adding together all the benefits a household receives. If the total exceeds the cap, deductions are made from the housing benefit payment to bring the total income down to the capped level (depending on individual circumstances).
• Ever-increasing rents in London.

Although councils must be satisfied that any offer of accommodation is suitable, suitability depends heavily on affordability. Taking the factors above into account, we get a clearer picture of why so many social tenants are being forced out of London. Many homeless families need housing benefit to pay their rent. With the cap in force and London rents rocketing, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find affordable housing in London (bear in mind that rent arrears can lead to eviction).

So the Localism Act 2011, plus the housing benefit cap, plus rising rents in London, add up to an undesirable outcome for homeless families forced to accept more affordable properties outside London.

Does this mean that London will eventually become home to the elite, with everyone else living on the outskirts?

Not necessarily. Guidance states that local authorities should provide accommodation within their borough as far as reasonably practicable. If that is not possible, they should try to accommodate people as close as possible to where they previously lived (Nzolameso v Westminster City Council). Local authorities must also consider the impact of moving families out of London, away from their social networks.

Although this makes it harder for London councils to justify moving tenants hundreds of miles away, some councils have nevertheless sent letters to social tenants offering incentives to move out of London voluntarily. Could this really be considered a solution?

Contact Arkas Law

Contact Pran Shantikumar now to discuss problems with London council housing: pran@arkaslaw.co.uk.