Council Emergency Housing Spending Doubles to £2 Million Amid National Homelessness Crisis

Stockport Council’s expenditure on emergency temporary accommodation has doubled to £2 million over the past year, driven by unprecedented homelessness levels and soaring costs for hotel placements. The council warns that urgent, radical government intervention is essential to address the escalating crisis.

Rising Demand Outpaces Housing Supply

Currently, around 8,000 households remain on Stockport’s social housing waiting list, with some families facing waits of up to 12 years. Despite operating three temporary accommodation schemes and a portfolio of flats, Stockport reached full capacity in 2022, forcing costly reliance on hotels to house those in need.

Stockport Homes, the council-owned body managing social housing, confirms the immense pressure on local services. A spokesperson said,
“Homelessness is a national challenge that Stockport cannot avoid. Our teams work tirelessly to provide safe and suitable accommodation, but rising costs and the backlog of families awaiting permanent homes continue to grow.”

Calls for Urgent Government Support

Councillor Jake Austin, Stockport Council’s housing lead and Liberal Democrat, emphasised the critical need for increased government funding and policy reform:
“The cost of living crisis is pushing more people out of the private rental market. Radical government action is needed to deliver long-term, permanent housing solutions. While recent commitments are a step forward, they do not go far enough. Stockport must receive fair funding to expand housing supply and prevent homelessness.”

He added,
“Despite national inaction under Labour, we remain committed locally—building thousands of new homes, intervening early to prevent homelessness, and ensuring residents get the support they need.”

Labour Group Response

In response, Councillor Christine Carrigan, leader of Stockport’s Labour group, attributed the crisis to years of Conservative neglect and highlighted Labour’s ongoing efforts:
“Homelessness services will receive nearly £1 billion in funding next year, with an additional £30 million targeted at high-pressure areas like Stockport, which is set to receive £177,026. This funding is vital for preventing evictions and supporting people into stable homes.”

Carrigan added,
“Labour is delivering the largest expansion of social housing in a generation and scrapping ‘no fault’ evictions to give families greater housing security. Meanwhile, the Lib Dems’ political posturing distracts from the real progress being made.”

Stockport Council’s Commitment

Stockport Council continues to expand and manage its temporary accommodation portfolio, ensuring safe, dignified housing solutions during this critical time. The council reiterates its call for a comprehensive government response to tackle the root causes of homelessness and housing insecurity across the borough.