A response from Sir Peter Bottomley MP:
I am aware that the increase in the cost of living over recent years, partly as a result of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia's invasion of Ukraine, has affected my constituents.
We are aware that despite some positive news on the economy, the coming winter is likely to be another challenging time for some.
After listening to local concerns from constituents, Housing Associations, and housing charities, ahead of the Autumn Statement, I wrote to the Minister at the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to make clear constituent concerns regarding the disparity between housing benefit and the average monthly rent of local property. I also meet with the Chancellor in the week prior to the Autumn Statement and highlighted the housing stress that some constituents have been under.
I was pleased that in his Statement, the Chancellor announced an increase to the Local Housing Allowance. In April 2024 Local Housing Allowance will rise to cover to the 30th percentile of local market rents. This rise will see 1.6 million low-income households be on average around £800 a year better off in 2024-2025.
The government has continued to show its commitment to alleviating housing difficulties, tackling homelessness and rough sleeping, working with local authorities and charities to help reduce the need for emergency and temporary accommodation.
There is local support available through Adur and Worthing Council: https://www.adur-worthing.gov.uk/housing/advice/i-am-homeless/ or through Arun Council: https://www.arun.gov.uk/homeless-or-at-risk-of-homelessness/ There is further advice from West Sussex County Council: https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/education-children-and-families/your-space/support/housing-support/housing-support-for-people-over-18/
Charities such as Turning Tides https://www.turning-tides.org.uk/get-help/ and Citizens Advice https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/housing/ can also provide advice and support.
My small team and I will work to help any constituent who is at risk of homelessness as a result. If you or anyone you know is in need of individual assistance, please do get in touch.
Support must continue to be adaptive and flexible to current needs and difficulties.