Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee

Recommendation 15

15

HAST actively supports local authorities to reduce B&B reliance through ongoing reviews and advice.

Conclusion
We asked MHCLG how successfully HAST was supporting local authorities to move away from B&B use. It told us that advisers are based in MHCLG offices all around the country, but they generally spend their time working alongside local authorities. HAST reviews information on B&B use quarterly and carries out in-depth visits to local authorities if there are particular 16 Qq 19-20; C&AG’s Report, paras 1.8, 3.18 17 Qq 1, 18, 85 18 Qq 19, 21 19 Q 19 12 issues of concern, which may involve putting together a cross-disciplinary team. Common themes with which HAST helps local authority staff include procuring temporary accommodation and escalating issues to senior management.20 Placing households in temporary accommodation outside their home area
Government Response

A response document is linked to this report, dated 6 May 2025. Response attribution to this conclusion has not been verified. Read the response document ↗