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Conference is safe as houses for Private landlords
September 2007
A unique move to make it easier for private landlords to rent their properties to people on housing waiting lists is culminating later this month in a top level regional conference. The event is being organised by Colchester based Colne Housing.
The scheme known as The Safe Haven Project is the first of its kind in the East of England and has brought together local authorities and private landlords across the Haven Gateway sub region. It was set -up after the area saw record levels of over-crowding and long waiting lists for people who are classed as homeless.
The project has involved working with councils including Babergh, Braintree, Colchester, Ipswich, Maldon, Mid Suffolk, Suffolk Coastal and Tendring and the Housing Corporation.
Karen Langford, Safe Haven Project Manager, said: “We have been meeting with colleagues from the local authorities as well as private landlords and the feedback has been invaluable. Private accommodation is a very valuable resource and leasing from the private sector is another great option for those who are desperately seeking new homes.”
Tim Lucas, Housing Research and Development Manager at Braintree District Council and Chairman of the Greater Haven Gateway housing group will be one of the principal speakers at the conference. He said: “The Safe Haven Project is a crucial piece of work and for the first time ever we have some important data on available private sector housing and how this can be utilised for the benefit of the owners and those seeking a home. Private sector leasing means landlords have the piece of mind that they are working with professionals from housing associations and local authorities that will offer a real alternative for homelessness.”
Housing Corporation's Head of Investment for the East of England, Naisha Polaine, who is speaking at the conference said, "The Corporation is committed to exploring, funding & promoting best practice. The Safer Haven Project is not only leading the way in tackling homelessness and overcrowding but showing how local authorities can work in partnership together to provide local solutions. "
The Safe Haven conference takes place as the Hotel Elizabeth in Copdock near Ipswich on 11th September starting at 10am.
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