Information from the weekly newletter issued by London Councils.
Consultation on HIV prevention drugs
London Councils is calling on Londoners to respond to the NHS England online consultation on HIV prevention drugs, known as PrEP. The drugs can be prescribed to people at greatest risk of contracting HIV.
NHS England announced earlier this year that it does not have the power to commission PrEP, but a judicial review brought by the National Aids Trust determined that it could. NHS England is appealing this ruling but is going ahead with its public consultation on the drug at the same time.Consultation responses will be used to shape the approach taken by NHS England if it commissions PrEP in the future. The consultation closes on Friday 23 September 2016.
Unemployment funding boost
The London boroughs have commissioned six new initiatives to tackle poverty across the capital by helping long-term unemployed and disadvantaged residents into work. The programme will make available £6 million funding in total.
The announcement marks the start of a new programme of work, which is jointly funded by London boroughs (via London Councils, who also manage the programme) and the European Social Fund.
Cllr Paul McGlone, Chair of the Grants Committee, said: “We’re delighted to use this funding to tackle poverty in some of London’s most deprived communities by getting people back into work.
“The money will be focused on those who are a long way from employment and will offer tailored support. At least 4,500 people will be helped and every borough will receive levels of support based on their needs.
CLG Homelessness report
The Department for Communities and Local Government Select Committee has today released its report on homelessness. The Committee has said that a new government-wide strategy is now needed to respond to the 'demonstrable increase' in homelessness in the UK, driven by the cost and availability of housing.
Mayor Steve Bullock, London Councils' Executive member for housing, said: "We welcome the committee tackling this important issue and are pleased that their report has not only recognised the unique pressures faced by London councils but – in many cases – their efforts to go above and beyond the call of duty to protect vulnerable people.
“For our part, we’ll be carefully considering the recommendations and building on the good work the committee has rightfully identified. But councils cannot tackle this alone. If boroughs are to carry out their duties towards homeless people, Government must play its part too by giving them adequate resources. We look forward to seeing their response.”
