A series of protocols have been produced by partners to support ongoing housing and related services. The first protocol is the Essex Prisoner Release Housing Protocol…
Essex Prisoner Release Housing Protocol
The Prison Release Protocol has had its first major refresh and update since it was initially developed some years ago; the new protocol, which includes partners from Greater Essex Housing Authorities, ECC, National Probation Service, Essex Police Fire & Crime Commissioner and HMPs Chelmsford/Peterborough, has gone through the various consultation stages and was officially signed off last Autumn and relaunched online on 10 October 2023 coinciding with World Homelessness Day.
Governance of the protocol will continue to be led by the 2-monthly partners meeting chaired by Simon Ablitt (NPS).
You can view the full Prison Release Protocol here.
Joint working protocol between Essex Housing Authorities and Children and Families Service in dealing with families at risk of homelessness with dependent children
This protocol covers the assessment and provision of services to families with dependent children who are facing homelessness and are not owed assistance or a homelessness duty from the Local Housing Authority.
In summary the purpose of the Protocol is to improve and promote cooperation and joint working between the partner agencies. Whilst also clarifying the statutory duties and agreed responsibilities of local authority housing departments and Children and Families Service (Children’s Social Care) across the ECC area.
The protocol seeks to jointly assess and meet the needs of families with dependent children who are facing homelessness or families in receipt of a negative homeless decision (within the remit of legislation and the resources available). This will ensure families secure accommodation that is adequate for their needs and that future homelessness is prevented by addressing support needs at the earliest opportunity, promoting tenancy sustainment. Also that children do not become cared for by Children and Families Service solely because of a lack of accommodation.
It will establish and clarify an approach agreed by the partner agencies which will apply across all districts.
You can view the full Protocol here.
Further protocols will be added to the page in due course.