The overall aim of the project is to maximise homeless prevention activity by building and promoting opportunities for those at risk of homelessness at a much earlier stage (i.e. years earlier, not crisis stage). We are aware of the root causes of homelessness and want to test how we can intervene at an earlier stage. Earlier intervention can best be achieved through multi-agency working such as sharing resources and finding creative and innovative solutions; so we are improving how we work internally and working in partnership externally to identify those at risk of homelessness earlier to provide access to support, education, employment and training or healthy activities needed to prevent future homelessness. We are working with partners* to explore new approaches and piloting this approach with a few people initially just to find out what works and what doesn’t. The council has made seven referrals so far, these have been a combination of formal referrals to EDGE alongside signposting to Citizens Advice and DWP and are following up with customers to obtain their feedback. *EDGE - partnership supported by a range of local partners who have made a commitment to share resource and expertise, bringing together local businesses, training providers, schools and jobseekers.

Scene 1 – customer worries about finances I don’t know what to do… I’m worried about how I’m going to pay my rent and council tax

Scene 2 – Homelessness costs Meanwhile at HDC officers are thinking about creative ideas to reduce homelessness All ideas are welcome – let’s just try I’ve got an idea but we’ll have to change the way we do things I wonder if the team have any ideas?

Try it, let’s see if it works Scene 3 – Ideas generation Teams tasked with suggesting new ways of working I’ve got an idea – why don’t we make appointments to EDGE for customers? Try it, let’s see if it works

I wonder if I should talk to the council about my council tax payments Scene 4 – Customer decides to visit council office I wonder if I should talk to the council about my council tax payments

I’m worried about paying my bills Scene 5 – customer meets with member of Customer Services Team Hi, how can I help? I’m worried about paying my bills

Scene 6 – trigger conversation with Customer Services This could be a referral for our new project What were the circumstances that led to your current situation? I was made redundant and I’m worried about paying rent and council tax

Scene 7 – trigger conversation with Customer Services Would you like some support to get back into work? Yes but how is the council able to do that…. I can make an appointment at EDGE for her right now – all she needs to do is attend

Hi, I’ve been expecting you. I can help you. Scene 8 – customer attends EDGE appointment Hi, I’ve been expecting you. I can help you.

I got the help I needed to update my CV and prepare for interviews. Scene 9 – back home after EDGE appointments I got the help I needed to update my CV and prepare for interviews.

Scene 10 – secured new job I got a job! I never expected this when I went to talk to the council about struggling to pay my council tax bill