AHEAD of a debate today (Thursday, 2 October) about a damning report on the effectiveness of Thurrock Council's homelessness policies, a leading borough councillor has offered an olive branch and committed to a meeting with a local-charity that heaped criticism on the authority.

As reported on Thurrock Nub News last week, a 12-week investigation revealed a "fragmented" service within the council that is struggling to cope with rising demand and escalating costs.

The report, which was commissioned by the portfolio holder for housing, Cllr Mark Hurrell, is due to be discussed at this evening's meeting of the council's Place overview & scrutiny committee.

In the wake of its publication the Friends of Essex and London Homeless charity (FOELH), founded in Thurrock by Steven Stuart and his wife Cheryl in 2016 and becoming a registered charity  in May 2018, also publicly criticised the council and condemned it for failing to engage.

In the years since it was founded FOELH has grown into a multi-layered organisation, acquiring knowledge and expertise about those living on the streets and families and individuals who are struggling to find or sustain accommodation.

As well as more than 30 volunteers who help run outreaches every week at Charing Cross station in London in London and in Grays it has become respected for its work with the homeless and been championed by many people, including Thurrock MP Jen Craft.

The charity runs an outreach service in Grays every week, supporting homeless and disadvanatged people in Thurrock

However, Mr Stuart says Thurrock Council has been a closed door to it, ignoring offers of help and advice. He adds that the report by and independent expert analysing Thurrock's performance came as no surprise,

He said: "We are deeply concerned that despite our repeated efforts knocking, kicking, and screaming for recognition and involvement our charity continues to be overlooked by Thurrock Council.

"With our knowledge, lived experience, and proven track record, we know we could be a strong partner in tackling the worsening issues of homelessness and the cost of living crisis. These are not abstract challenges; they are daily realities for the vulnerable people we support.

"Even when former portfolio holder Cllr Mark Hooper visited us personally, witnessed the work we do, and promised to return within two weeks after discussions with colleagues, more than eight months have passed and we've heard nothing back. Sadly, this is just one of many examples of commitments left unfulfilled and opportunities for partnership ignored.

"Meanwhile, the situation in our community has escalated to levels we have never seen before. The problems are growing "sizeably bigger" and, quite frankly, are now spiralling out of control. What baffles us most is why the Council would not call upon us when we are ready, willing, and able to help.

FOELH vVolunteers interacting and supporting the homeless in London.

"We believe the Council's lack of engagement has allowed the crisis to meander unchecked into the wider community, bringing us to a dangerous crossroads. We urge Thurrock Council to act immediately and work with us not just for the sake of partnership, but for the people in crisis who cannot afford more delays."

Following a wave of support for the charity on social media – and further criticism of the council from disaffected residents and homeless people – Cllr Hurrell, who took up his post in May this year, responded publicly, saying: "Thank you for everything you do, I will make a public promise.

"By the end of October you will be invited to a meeting with myself and senior council officials."