AQO 160/17-22

Mr Andrew Muir
Alliance Party
North Down

Tabled Date: 06/02/2020
Answered On Date: 18/02/2020
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on the implementation of the proposals of the Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations.

Answer:

A consultation on ‘A Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations’ ran from September to December 2017.

This was the culmination of a Department-led review to examine the Housing Selection Scheme.

During previous phases of the Review, stakeholders commented that they valued aspects of the current Scheme, including the principle of universal access and that allocations should prioritise applicants in greatest need.

However some stakeholders also raised concerns, saying, for example, that applicants with intimidation points are given too much priority over other applicants who have received threats of violence or experienced violence, such as victims of domestic abuse.

Taken together, the proposals contained in the consultation document are intended to produce five key outcomes:

A greater range of solutions to meet housing need;

An improved system for the most vulnerable applicants;

A more accurate waiting list that reflects current housing circumstances;

Those in greatest housing need receive priority, with recognition of their time in need; and

Better use of public resources by ensuring the waiting list moves smoothly.

While improvements to the allocations system cannot physically deliver more social homes, they can ensure we make the best use of our existing resources.

Analysis of stakeholder feedback has been completed by my Departmental officials.

I will be considering the Review, options and next steps in the coming weeks.