Rising demand for Darlington homeless support is a 'serious issue'

The rising cost of tackling homelessness means Darlington Borough Council is struggling to balance its budget. 

Matthew Roche, cabinet member for Health and Housing, described the problems as a “really serious national issue” but vowed to support residents as much as possible. 

In a report reviewing its homelessness services, the council warned of a “significant increase” in the nights spent in emergency and temporary accommodation. Such pressures mean contracted temporary provision is fully utilised, with people placed in alternative hotels and bed and breakfast accommodation.

The local authority recently stepped up its efforts to provide rough sleepers across Darlington a warm space indoors when temperatures rapidly dropped. 

Council officials predict a £1.326 million shortfall in housing benefit subsidy and rent allowance for 2025/26, described as the second largest pressure on council finances. 

Highlighting the issue, councillor Roz Henderson called for government support to help Darlington residents. Speaking at a full council meeting, the Green Party councillor said: “Has Darlington’s financial situation around the impacts of homelessness been communicated to central government to urge them to address this from a national perspective? 

“Is there anything more we can do to prevent homelessness, specifically from the private rental sector, maybe through better regulation and changes to eviction legislation and rent caps?”

Despite the warning, the council said it is “not alone in facing this challenge with homelessness widespread across the country.”

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Councillor Roche said the council is “addressing the issues as best as we can” and is working with Darlington MP Lola McEvoy to lobby for better investment and support. 

He also noted local plans to build more council housing and the recent announcements by government to remove discounts on right to buy housing will help retain council stock. “We are also looking to purchase and lease additional property to both help the financial position and give residents more stability,” the council added. 

In November, the council unveiled its strategy to end homelessness in Darlington, ensure every resident has a secure and affordable home, and provide the right support. It is hoped national measures to end Section 21 no-fault evictions and improve private sector housing controls will also improve experiences.