Longer waiting times for council housing in Derbyshire
The Local Government Association is worried waiting times will double by this time next year
There have been concerns that the length of waiting lists for council housing could double by this time next year.
Waiting times have got longer since the pandemic, with a rise in evictions meaning that some people are worried about the issue of homelessness also getting worse.
But North East Derbyshire District council is encouraging people to still come forward if they require housing support despite the high levels of demand in the area. Mr Pepper added:
Housing options Manager Lee Pepper from North East Derbyshire District Council said: "The number of people needing help is rising. That's clear to see and councils need to be vigilant. The real risk is a rise in homelessness."
"Councils have a duty to assist households regardless of how long council waiting lists are. If people are having difficulties they need to contact the council. It really is so important to stress. And in many cases councils will be able to help people remain in their homes."
"We are seeing an increase in demand following the end of pandemic-related protections. In particular, the state of evictions. A number of people have been contacting the council because they've received a Section 21 notice has increased significantly."
"Thankfully though, we work closely with a number of agencies that support people to provide accommodation."
Impact worse for single people
Some people may be more affected than others, with single people being at a significant disadvantage. Mr Pepper said:
"The number of single people needing assistance has increased significantly since the pandemic. And this council has partnered with other councils in Derbyshire. We co-fund the North Derbyshire Single Person's Homelessness Pathway to protect hundreds of vulnerable people during the lockdowns and cold winter months."