Folkestone & Hythe District Council is to invest £5m into expanding its stock of temporary accommodation.
Cabinet members have approved a proposal which will see a further 20 properties, at least, bought to be used for homeless households in the district.
Using council-owned properties as temporary accommodation reduces the reliance on private, nightly-let temporary accommodation and is more cost-effective in the long term.
Cllr Rebecca Shoob, Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness said: “As has been the case nationally, the number of homeless households approaching the council has increased over the last year. Providing the accommodation ourselves provides better value for money and delivers a long-term housing asset for the district.”
“But this is only part of the solution – we will continue our work to prevent homelessness wherever possible. This is by keeping residents in their existing homes or by assisting them into alternative accommodation and avoiding the need to move to temporary arrangements.”
If you are at risk of homelessness or are concerned about losing your home in the future for any reason, you can get advice and assistance by visiting our website.