Documents attached

The Sub-Committee was presented with a report on the Housing Allocation Scheme.

Members noted the new scheme had been designed to allocate priority based on needs using a points based system based on local connection, homelessness, medical needs and more. Benefits of the new scheme were noted as there would be less ambiguity, it reduces choice, it reduces the refusal of properties, there would be greater transparency and would allow for a better understanding. It was explained to members that the points would act as a currency to be used to ‘bid’ on properties. Waiting times for houses would depend on the size of houses available, the size of the house needed and any other needs to be considered.

Officers explained a consultation had been announced via the website and a magazine but responses were only collected online which would be reviewed for future consultations had the response rate was poor. Members also suggested a review to reach the BAME community.

There was overall support of the new scheme from the Sub-Committee with members requesting a review of the performance at least a year after the scheme had been implemented.

The Sub-Committee approved the recommendations.