Home Connections welcomed a think tank’s report that showcases Camden’s unique approach to tackling overcrowding in council homes. Home Connections worked with Camden overcrowding team at the time to visualise their approach and assist lifestyle coaches and officers to enable tenants to think about their living space.
The report, Room to Move, was written by Amelia Cookson and Janet Sillet from the Local Government information Unit (LGiU).

It presents a case for change, which will allow local authorities to best meet the needs of their residents. The research explains the barriers which currently exist to tackling overcrowding, shows examples of best practice and makes recommendations on the changes needed to reduce overcrowding and bring about a fairer and more effective housing system.

Camden’s approach to tackling overcrowding focuses on meeting three key challenges: assisting overcrowded and in particular severely overcrowded families move to alternative larger accommodation where viable options exist; helping under-occupying tenants move to smaller homes and helping overcrowded families improve their use of space and their quality of life.

Home Connections developed for LB Camden a 3D model of a typical overcrowded flat. A team of highly skilled multimedia artists from Home Connections created a 3D model to highlight how usage of space could be improved for example by:

• introducing bunk beds
• small property adaptations such converting cupboards into washbasins or toilets
• partitioning rooms to create multi-use areas
• larger works to create extra rooms

We have recently been engaged by London Borough 0f Hackney to develop a digital approach for them focusing on space management and routine management.

Talk to us about to find out how we can help you alleviate and combat overcrowding in within your housing stock