Homeless families living in temporary accommodation have accused Lambeth Council in south London of carrying out intimidating, unannounced home visits that have left many fearing eviction.
Housing campaign group Housing Action Southwark and Lambeth (HASL) said several families reported unexpected visits from council housing officers, while others received sudden emails warning they could be moved far outside London.
The group said these actions have created confusion and distress for vulnerable households as the unannounced visits made them feel frightened and forced out.
The council recently announced that most homeless families may need to be rehoused outside the borough, and in some cases outside the South East, due to a severe shortage of local accommodation. Temporary housing costs in Lambeth have reportedly risen above £100m a year, as the council seeks major savings.
HASL criticised the council’s use of private rented housing offers, arguing it risks pushing families into further homelessness. The group staged a protest last year, calling for an end to unannounced visits.
Lambeth Council rejected claims of intimidation, saying visits are necessary to inspect housing conditions and help families find stable, long-term homes.
Deputy council leader Danny Adilypour said the authority is working compassionately under intense financial pressure to provide security for homeless households.
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