AC welcomes BBC Panorama’s examination of the serious failings experienced by some people living in supported accommodation.
John Perry, Chief Executive Officer of AC, said:
“Watching Panorama last night, what struck me most was just how vulnerable some of the people featured were. Seeing people who desperately needed help being let down so badly, while public money was being paid for support that seemingly wasn't being delivered, was genuinely sickening.
I know how hard our own staff, and dedicated colleagues across the sector, work to support vulnerable people. They regularly go above and beyond, sometimes at the expense of their own wellbeing, because they genuinely care about the people they support.
When supported accommodation is done properly, it can be life-changing. It can give someone stability, rebuild their confidence and offer them a genuine fresh start.
We mustn't allow the actions of unscrupulous providers to overshadow the incredible work being done by organisations genuinely committed to helping people. We're already preparing for the new supported housing licensing regime and working closely with our local authority to ensure our services continue to meet local needs and deliver the standards residents deserve.
Good supported accommodation changes lives. Poor supported accommodation exploits vulnerability. There should be no place for the latter.”
Residents deserve safe, suitable housing and the meaningful support they have been promised. Nobody should be left in poor accommodation without the help they need, and it is right that these issues are brought into public view.
We welcome the Government’s plans to strengthen the regulation of supported housing, including local licensing and National Supported Housing Standards. These reforms are an important opportunity to raise standards, improve accountability and protect vulnerable people from exploitation.
At AC, we see every day the difference that good supported accommodation can make. Our staff work alongside people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity, helping them rebuild stability, develop independence and move towards a more secure future. We are proud of the positive outcomes our residents achieve and the dedication of the staff who support them.
AC remains committed to providing safe accommodation, meaningful support and treating every resident with dignity and respect.