Croydon Council is transforming its housing service to provide the most efficient service for some of our most vulnerable residents, whilst also making our council financially sustainable for the future.
We need to make changes to make sure that we can help people at risk of homelessness as early as possible; also to make it quicker and easier for all residents to get in touch and get an appointment when they need us.
We are proposing a restructure of the housing needs team to create a modernised service that puts residents first. The new model will focus on early intervention and prevention of homelessness, where vulnerable residents can get face-to-face appointments to discuss their situation and be seen more quickly. The quality of accommodation offered will also be improved under the plans.
We appreciate the valuable role that our staff play in delivering these essential services for residents and – as part of a full, staff consultation process – the council has continued to meet and respond to staff queries and address concerns.
The council has also been meeting with Croydon GMB and colleagues since the consultation closed, to seek solutions and reach a positive agreement for our staff and for residents.
We have listened to their concerns and made changes to the proposals, so the regional decision for industrial action is disappointing. We are committed to continuing talks with Croydon GMB and employee representatives.
The council has ensured there has been no disruption to the service for residents during the industrial action.
