Findings from the Hackney Temporary Accommodation Listening Campaign: Residents Call for Change

Temporary accommodation residents from across the London Borough of Hackney have come together to talk about their experiences, and what changes they want to see.

Shelter London, working in partnership with Healthwatch Hackney NHS Community Voice, engaged with these residents in a listening campaign, to capture these stories and produce findings which both paint a picture of life in temporary accommodation, and show what needs to change.

Residents have put together 5 key recommendations for the local authority and landlords, which they hope will improve the lives of all. These are:

1. All residents should have access to wi-fi. So they can work, study and socialise without having to depend on unreliable and expensive phone data.

2. All residents should have access to laundry facilities that work, are within walking distance, and available at a reasonable price – if not free.

3. Residents must be given information when they move about where they are moving to, how to access local services, and what rights they have.

4. Residents should feel supported, with clear access to information about their case and consistent support from the local authority for their wellbeing.

5. Residents should feel empowered. They should be listened to, have their concerns addressed, and be involved in open forums, meetings, and service design.

For more information on how to support, join or promote the campaign, please contact tyrone_scott@shelter.org.uk