Agenda item

Following the exit from the European Union in January 2020 and the Covid lockdown on 23 March 2020 and the subsequent period of restrictions, services to council housing tenants and homeless people have inevitably been impacted. This report sets out these impacts and the action plan which is being implemented to address the manifold, negative service impacts upon the delivery of housing services.

The Committee received a wide ranging update on the impact Covid-19 and Brexit had had on the work of Housing Services. It was noted that the team had continued to work to deliver a 24 hour service during Covid as well as undertaking work to stop anyone sleeping rough during the first lockdown. Areas such as Voids were highlighted as particularly having been affected which had created a backlog of work. Accessing resources and trained trades workers were also highlighted as significant problems which had affected the work of the service.

Staffing levels in Housing Services were raised by Members and whether it had been affected by the Councils additional controls on recruitment related to Covid-19. Officers explained that due to the Council finances and the impact of Covid-19 additional scrutiny on recruitment had been put in place by the Corporate Management Team however, this had not been a block on recruitment where it was required, instead, it was noted that recruitment of those with skills such as joinery had been hard due to a lack of qualified people available in the job market. Officers highlighted that wage inflation could affect Council recruitment in the medium term especially as the Council is facing a problem of an aging work force.

The backlog of work was discussed and it was highlighted that a spike in work was reported after all work undertaken at Council properties resumed. Offices highlighted how this had created long list of cases, 159 Void properties, and an increased number of FOI’s, MP letters, and Councillor enquiries. Members acknowledged the significant challenges faced by the team but highlighted that council tenants with a long backlog of issues requiring maintenance was a serious issue to providing homes fit for habitation and that the Council had a duty to people who in must cases would not be able to find alternative accommodation.

The budget for Housing Services was discussed and it was noted that the Council had set a key challenge to reduce its number of Void properties, this would make more homes available for those on the housing waiting list, but also allow the Council to make more back in rents. Officers also highlighted that the underspend on repairs from the pervious year due to Covid, was carried forward into this years budget for the service, Members did however, highlight that despite the overspend being brought forward the Executive had removed £200,000 from the Council’s budget for repairs. Members also enquired about rent arrears and whether this was a serious issue, officers noted that usually tenants would aim to pay and this was not a major issue for the Council.

The issues around volatile energy prices were raised and it was noted that a Housing Hardship Fund was available that officers highlighted to residents, as well as, directing people to support such as that from York Advice Network residents were always encouraged to get the best energy deals. Members suggested that Community Hubs could potentially support residents about finding energy deals and support. It was also noted that would to create more energy efficient homes would have a positive impact for residents energy bills.

Resolved:

                      i.         Noted the impact of Brexit and Covid-19 on Housing Services;

                     ii.         Officers to explore what support could be provided at Community Hubs regarding energy bills.

Reason:     To ensure the Committee remain aware of the ongoing challenges within Housing Services.