Written evidence submitted by the Ashley Foundation [EXA 119]

The Ashley Foundation, a Registered Charity based in the North West of England would like to submit evidence to the Government Inquiry into Exempt Accommodation by providing responses to the specific questions raised as follows:

The Charity provided accommodation for the homeless in hostels and flats across Blackpool, Sunderland and Blackburn. This submission relates to three hostels in Blackpool, a hostel in Sunderland, and 40 flats, spread over 10 properties in Sunderland. These properties are operated under the terms of Management Agreements entered into in late 2017 and early 2018.

1)       What is the quality of exempt housing provision?

The Blackpool Hostels are former guest houses adapted over many years to provide accommodation for the homeless. There are issues which are currently being addressed to increase the quality and standard of the accommodation.

The Sunderland Hostel was renovated by the Charity in 2018, and is in good condition

The Sunderland Flats are former private residential properties and are maintained to a good standard

2)       Is the current model of exempt accommodation financially viable, and does it represent value for money?

From the recent experience of The Ashley Foundation the answer to both these questions is ‘no’. The Charity is currently the subject of a Charity Commission investigation, and a significant element of this investigation relates to transactions entered into in late 2017 and 2018. Further details can be provided on a confidential basis.

We do believe however that these transactions demonstrate how this sector is being exploited and how private investors, via investment funds are benefiting ‘secure’ investment returns from very high lease rentals.

We strongly believe that the current model does not represent value for money for the taxpayer.

3)       Are there significant geographical and regional differences in the provision and the problems of exempt accommodation?

We do see differences in the provision across the various authorities with whom we work. Some provide clear pathways to enable the homeless individuals to be supported along the journey to self-sustainability. However there are also instances where this isn’t the case and this can result in residents becoming ‘institutionalised’ in our hostels.

4)       What is the proportion of exempt accommodation provided by commissioned compared to non-commissioned providers, and is an appropriate balance being struck?

The Charity is not in a position to answer this question

5)       How does whether a provider is registered or non-registered, or commissioned or non-commissioned, impact the quality of provision?

We do not believe that there should be any difference, but are unable to comment further

6)       How should exempt accommodation be provided and what should the service cost?

Exempt accommodation should be provided by Not for Profit or Charitable organisations. The service should be funded on ‘audited actual cost’ within a range, as is currently the case with Residential homes.

7)       How should the regulatory oversight of exempt accommodation be organised?

There is a definite need for a regulator, probably along similar lines to OFSTED or the Care Quality Commission.

8)       What should be the regulations governing exempt accommodation and how should those regulations be enforced?

The regulations should cover room size, facilities to be provided, support, health & safety, fire regulations, and security of the premises. Enforcement should be via inspection visits.

9)       Is there sufficient publicly available information about exempt accommodation?

There is very little publicly available information.

March 2022