Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 17
17
Accepted
MHCLG lacks crucial data on distance of out-of-area placements for homeless families
Recommendation
We asked MHCLG how far away from their home area these families were living. It replied that it does not have the data to understand the exact figures involved, although it is aware that some families are being placed at a considerable distance. MHCLG told us that it agreed with the recommendation in the National Audit Office report that it should improve the data it holds on out of area placements. It emphasised that the homelessness legislation and code of guidance make clear local authorities should, as far as possible, avoid placing households out of area.23
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the recommendation, and MHCLG is exploring publishing additional temporary accommodation data, including quantifying out-of-area placements, from its existing collection by April 2025 to enhance data availability and inter-authority coordination.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
3.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: April 2025 3.2 MHCLG is exploring what additional data related to temporary accommodation can be published on a regular basis from its existing collection, potentially quantifying the number of out of area placements received. Improved availability of data will assist local authorities to collaborate and coordinate on the location of placements. 3.3 The homelessness legislation already requires local authorities to place homeless households in their area wherever possible. Where this is not possible, the legislation requires local authorities to place the household as near as possible to the original local authority. The government considers this a strong incentive to use local provision, however MHCLG will continue to explore this important issue in its engagement with local government.