A new forum has been launched to help raise housing standards and support vulnerable residents across the Lancaster and Morecambe area.
The first meeting of the Supported Housing Provider Forum was held at Morecambe Town Hall earlier this month.
It brought together officers from Lancaster and Preston City Councils with local housing providers.
Attendees welcomed the opportunity to share best practice and gain practical insights from an array of speakers.
On the agenda were topics including fire safety, housing benefits, housing improvements and how to support residents with addiction.
“Supported housing plays an important role in helping people to live safely and independently, and high standards are essential to making that work," said Councillor Caroline Jackson, leader of Lancaster City Council.
“This new forum gives providers and councils a valuable space to share expertise, raise standards and work together to make sure people are safe, supported and able to thrive.
“We’re keen for more landlords to get involved and be part of shaping better supported housing across Lancaster and Preston, so would encourage any that aren’t currently part of the forum to get in touch.”
Councillor Peter Kelly, Cabinet member for Communities, Social Justice and Night-time Economy at Preston City Council, added: “Helping residents live independently relies on accommodation being well managed and of a high standard.
“By bringing councils and housing providers around the same table, this forum will help us share learning, tackle issues early and drive improvements, so people get safe homes and the right support to move forward.”
The forum is being delivered as part of the Supported Housing Improvement Programme (SHIP), which is funded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
As part of the wider programme, a comprehensive review of supported housing provision is being carried out. Both councils will be working closely with providers to improve property standards and the quality of support offered to residents.
If you are a housing provider with accommodation in Lancaster or Preston and would like to join the Supported Housing Provider Forum, email either ship@lancaster.gov.uk or ship@preston.gov.uk.
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