Did local authority discharge its relief duty and comply with Housing Act 1996 (Moge v London Borough of Ealing)

Article summary

Local Government analysis: The issue in this appeal was whether the London Borough of Ealing (‘Ealing’), when seeking to discharge its relief duty under section 189B of the Housing Act 1996 (HA 1996), namely to take reasonable steps to her the appellant secure accommodation, had acted in accordance with HA 1996, s 208, to ensure so far a reasonably practicable to secure that accommodation in their district. Ealing accepted it had a duty towards the appellant (‘Ms Moge’) and made multiple offers which were refused. A final offer was made on a property outside the borough and the court was satisfied that at the time there was no other more reasonable alternative. Wholesome criticism was levelled of the polices Ealing had in place and the evidence produced. Nevertheless it was found that Ealing had complied with their duty and the obligations set out in HA 1996, s 208. Written by Clive Adams,...