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With over 2,000 people, including 1,300 children, trapped in temporary accommodation, the council is helping residents find a way forward into secure, affordable homes in the private rented sector.
The housing crisis continues to affect people across the borough - from those facing homelessness, to families living in overcrowded or unsuitable homes, to renters struggling with rising costs. Temporary accommodation is just one visible part of a much wider challenge.
Brent is one of the worst affected places in the UK by the housing crisis. Every week, around 140 households in the borough become homeless and the situation has reached a critical point.
What many people don’t know is that over 34,000 households are on the council’s waiting list. Some have waited decades. Yet, on average, only around 650 council homes become available annually, and 40% are one-bedroom properties - far too small for many families.
The reality is that many people in temporary accommodation will never be offered a council home.
At the same time, the number of homes available to rent privately has dropped by 41% since 2017, and rents are rising faster than ever. Many people who were once able to rent in London are now being priced out.
Rather than waiting for a council home that may never come, the council is helping families take control - finding affordable, safe, long-term housing in the private sector.
That means finding a place they can afford and making sure it is safe, secure and suitable for the long term.
This crisis affects not only those in temporary accommodation, but also thousands more living in overcrowded conditions, substandard or unsafe housing, or struggling to afford rapidly rising rents.
Councillor Fleur Donnelly-Jackson, Cabinet Member for Housing, said:
“The homelessness crisis we face today is not only an emergency but also a profound human tragedy, one that reflects years of failed national housing policy.
“This crisis affects not only those in temporary accommodation, but also thousands more living in overcrowded conditions, substandard or unsafe housing, or struggling to afford rapidly rising rents.
“We fully acknowledge the hardship endured by families living in temporary accommodation, especially those who have been trapped in this situation for years.
“Temporary accommodation is meant to be a safety net, a short-term refuge for families in crisis who have become homeless. It is not a long-term solution. We have to be honest with people and the reality is that the vast majority of people in temporary housing will not be offered a council home.
“That is why the council is doing everything possible to help residents navigate this extremely difficult situation. This includes offering tailored advice and practical support to explore all realistic housing options - including properties outside of London where housing is more affordable.
“We recognise that these are not easy choices. But wherever families move, we are committed to ensuring the homes are safe, suitable and affordable - and that families are supported before, during and after any move."
The council provides a wide range of support to help residents find and move into longer-term homes in the private rented sector. This includes:
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