Decision

Resolved:

1.    
That the Local Government &
Social Care Ombudsman report and the council’s response be
noted.

2.    
That the Committee records its
extreme disappointment that similar failings have arisen again
after being raised by the Committee in 2023, notes that the
Council’s approach in this case breached the Homelessness
Code of Guidance and exposed the authority to potential legal
challenge, and expresses serious concern at the apparent practice
of only providing interim accommodation shortly before the
execution of a bailiff’s warrant.

3.    
That the Committee notes it would
have been minded to make a formal referral to Mayor and Cabinet
were Section 21 notices not due to be abolished, and that it will
keep the handling of possession and homelessness cases under close
review as the new legislative framework comes into
force.