Responding to the cuts: a survival guide for frontline services

In 2010 the Government announced to local councils that their budgets would be cut from 2011/12, but urged them to protect services for the most vulnerable.

Homelessness Grant (the national budget for tackling homelessness) was not cut, and overall Supporting People (SP) funding was kept mostly in tact with a 12% reduction over four years, starting with 2.7% for 2011/12. However, these are not ring-fenced, which means that despite the relatively low cut, homelessness and other essential services are at risk of reduced funds that may impact clients we work with significantly. This political and economic climate means tough times are ahead for homelessness organisations so they must be informed and ready to adapt.

The aim of this good practice note is to share real responses and suggest solutions for homelessness services in how to respond to reduced statutory and charity funding. It is focused solely on responses for services facing SP and Homelessness Grant cuts. It does not refer to other areas of reform such as changes to welfare and housing benefit.

It includes case studies to enable services to learn from others who are taking steps to mitigate the impact of the cuts.

Webinar:

Please watch a recording of our 'Responding to the cuts for local authorities: keeping homelessness in the picture' webinar, held on Tuesday 29th November 2011.