Housing Reserve Fund changes Debate

Community Wellbeing - Lifestyle & Enjoyment

Option 2

Supporters of Option 2 believe that expanding the Housing Reserve Fund to include vulnerable housing support will enhance the general wellbeing of the community by providing alternatives to street sleeping, thus improving the living conditions in the city center. However, there is a call for more innovative and permanent housing solutions rather than temporary fixes like night shelters, which may perpetuate homelessness and provide unsafe environments. The community emphasizes the need for collaboration with local organizations to develop creative and sustainable housing strategies that address the root causes of homelessness and ensure safety and stability for the most vulnerable residents.

Table of comments:

Point No	Comment
985.4	We agree with the proposal to broaden the provision of vulnerable housing support. We have seen a small, but growing, number of people living in the city centre, which is having an impact on surrounding businesses. It is important that we provide appropriate alternatives for people so that sleeping on the street is not their only option.
987.5	How will the “vulnerable and highest need residents” be determined? Council need to work in partnership with community and community organisations to find innovative solutions to the housing issue. A ‘night shelter’ for example is a facility that sustains homelessness and are generally unsafe for many of the residents. We need creative and innovative solutions to finding homes for people rather than trying to sustain homelessness or some level of transience. (e.g. Wikitoria)