Plans to change the way the homeless are dealt with in Lichfield have been given the thumbs up.
Lichfield District Council unveiled proposals to prevent people from refusing private rented accomodation if it is offered.
A draft report drawn up by Cllr Colin Greatorex in the wake of the Localism Act was backed by the local authority’s Cabinet at a meeting this week.
The council’s policy on discharging their homelessness duty plans to “encourage” people to join the housing register directly, rather than formally applying for homeless status.
However, the document also recognises that tenancy agreements in the private sector must be for a minimum of 12 months – with landlords encouraged to grant two year agreements.
But the report warns that those who still opt to reject private rented accommodation offered will “have to make their own [housing] arrangements”.
The draft policy also outlines how families could have to move out of the area if suitable accommodation is not available within the district.
Residents can have their say on the council’s homeless strategy via its online consultation.
