London council sets up homelessness scrutiny panel to improve service

“A whole-system approach means looking at the issue of homelessness from a range of perspectives across health, social care, housing, justice and community sectors,” the report said.

It said this could be achieved by viewing the holistic strengths and needs of people experiencing homelessness from their perspective, rather than focusing on specific services.

“As such, an additional aim of the panel is proposed: to consider the role of the council, currently and in the future, in convening the wider ‘homelessness system’ of different organisations and groups to deliver a more joined-up response,” according to the report.

The panel, made up of three councillors, will conduct interviews with residents to examine their levels of understanding and perceptions of homelessness.

It will also include people who have experienced or are experiencing homelessness, to understand their experiences in seeking to navigate the homelessness system.

Panellists will speak to staff members involved in commissioning or delivering homelessness services, both within the council and with external partners.

Following its research, the panel will produce a report and recommendations.

The chair will present the final report to the housing scrutiny committee and ask that it is formally adopted.