SSC Marketing Comments On Newham Council Accused Of Social Cleansing Of Tenants

April 27, 2012 - PRLog -- SSC Marketing local sales and marketing company stated, “The news about Newham Council saying it can no longer afford to house tenants on its waiting list in private accommodation will be devastating for many families.”  The gap between market rents and the housing allowance is too big, it says. But the association says such a move could mark the start of "thousands of needy people" being dumped elsewhere. Labour MPs say the decision to seek accommodation outside London is proof that the government's policy of capping housing benefit is already "beginning to unravel".

It says the council can no longer afford to house tenants on its waiting list in private accommodation as the gap between market rents and the local housing allowance has become too great. The council has been "forced to look further afield for alternative supply", it adds. The Brighter Futures chief executive officer, Gill Brown, has not formally replied to Newham Council's offer but says she will not agree.

"I think there is a real issue of social cleansing going on," she said."We are very anxious about this letter which we believe signals the start of a movement which could see thousands of needy people dumped in Stoke with no proper plan for their support or their welfare.”

“For many that are completely dependent on welfare this is horrible development and leaves many feeling uneasy about their future living situation,” stated the managing director at SSC Marketing.

"We are doing everything we can to ensure we have good quality, affordable housing which is fairly distributed.”Alongside a number of other London councils, we are also exploring the option of working with housing associations outside the borough to house people with an immediate need in the private sector, when there is no other alternative." The managing director at SSC marketing said “I’m glad that they are doing everything they can to ensure that people are looked after.”

Newham Council is offering to pay Brighter Futures 90% of the local housing allowance plus £60 per week. Brighter Futures estimates the scheme could save Newham Council £5,250 a year for a family housed in a three-bedroom home.