AQW 18237/17-22

Ms Kellie Armstrong
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 30/04/2021
Answered On Date: 12/05/2021
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities how objective need is used to allocate homes to applicants; and how her Department is achieving the Executive's commitment to building a shared society rather than single identity districts.

Answer:

I am committed to ensuring an effective and fair housing allocations system. This is fundamental to easing housing stress and making sure allocations to social housing are based on objective housing need. The Selection Scheme awards points based on personal, housing and social circumstances. There are four categories: intimidation, insecurity of tenure, housing conditions, and health and social care needs. The total points from all categories reflect the applicant’s housing need.

I recently published a Consultation Outcome Report on the “Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations”. It details the anticipated changes that will update the Housing Selection Scheme, ensuring a more accurate waiting list. The Housing Executive has been asked to take forward implementation of the agreed proposals as soon as the budget is confirmed.