From April, Havering will receive £2.46m from the government to prevent homelessness and £2.56m the year after. The grant can be used flexibly by councils to offer financial aid for people to find a new home, provide temporary accommodation and work with landlords to prevent evictions.

Hornchurch and Upminster MP, Julia Lopez, has welcomed the grant. Speaking on the announcement Mrs Lopez said:

"I made representations on behalf of Havering to the government in the autumn on the homelessness grant after local journalists, councillors and residents highlighted concerns to me about whether the borough would be getting support. I am really pleased to have received confirmation of the grant ahead of Christmas to give Havering Council comfort that they will have funds to help vulnerable families and individuals who are at risk of homelessness."