Announcement from Robert Jenrick regarding Support for Renters and the Homeless

Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick has today announced extra support to house rough sleepers across all councils in England.

• Ban on bailiff enforced evictions extended

• Confirmation of court support for landlords and renters and launch of mediation pilot

• Backed by an additional £10 million in funding, all councils in England are being asked to redouble their efforts to help accommodate all those currently sleeping rough and ensure they are swiftly registered with a GP, where they are not already.

This will ensure they can be protected from the virus and contacted to receive vaccinations in line with the priority groups outlined by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation.

Councils will also be asked to reach out again to those who have previously refused help, given rising infection rates and the colder winter months.

Renters will continue to be supported during the new national restrictions, with an extension to the ban on bailiff evictions for all but the most egregious cases for at least 6 weeks – until at least 21 February – with measures kept under review.