Cardiff sees high demand for homelessness services amid budget concerns and housing goals.
Homelessness services still see many people. Almost ten thousand people are on a waiting list, and about thirty people sleep rough in the city.
Another council member inquired about the budget and whether it would help for the next year. The housing member responded that it’s hard to know, stating that family homelessness seems stable, but single homelessness does not.
She stated that housing plans depend on inflation and service demand, both of which affect the budget. Cardiff Council needs to find millions to cover costs next year.
The Welsh Government gave some money to the council, but they still have a budget gap to fill. Meeting housing standards is a big problem, she said, adding that this challenge affects many local councils.
She could not promise they’d reach all their goals but explained that investments influence success. The Welsh Government wants better energy efficiency in homes.
Council homes must be more energy efficient soon, needing to improve by 2030 and again by 2034. Many homes are still below the first goal, and it could cost millions to upgrade them all.
Another council also struggles with these goals: The Vale of Glamorgan Council faces similar issues. Meeting housing efficiency standards is costly and will take millions over ten years.
The housing member had a meeting with the government, where they talked about the housing standards. Perhaps the goals will change, she thought, or maybe the deadline will be extended.