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Local government intends to oust approximately 20,000 families from the social housing waitlist in London

London's Greenwich Council plans to reduce its social housing list and accept applications only from those with immediately critical needs meeting certain standards. The council has initiated a discussion on proposed measures to tackle an unusual surge in requests for affordable housing in the...

London authorities propose to exclude roughly 20,000 households from the social housing waitlist
London authorities propose to exclude roughly 20,000 households from the social housing waitlist

Local government intends to oust approximately 20,000 families from the social housing waitlist in London

Greenwich Council Proposes Changes to Social Housing Waiting List

The Royal Borough of Greenwich Council in London has launched a consultation on proposals to manage the unprecedented demand for subsidized housing in the borough. One of the key changes being considered is the closure of a category on the social housing waiting list, specifically band C.

Currently, around just ten homes a year are offered to households in band C of the waiting list. With approximately 27,000 households on the housing register waiting for a council home, this number is far from enough. As a result, the council is planning to shut band C completely and provide advice on other housing options like low-cost renting and subsidized home ownership.

The council currently places applicants for social housing in one of three categories of priority: A, B, and C, with households in band A given the highest priority. Households in band C would be removed from the social housing waiting list, and it is important to note that this change may affect key workers, council staff, and others with a particular need to live in the borough.

Financial criteria will be introduced to determine eligibility for social housing. This means that individuals with higher incomes or savings may be excluded from the social housing waiting list. However, limited measures are being considered to expand eligibility for the waiting list in specific circumstances.

It is also important to note that tenants affected by the bedroom tax may also be affected by the changes. The council is proposing to exclude these individuals from band C of the social housing waiting list.

The consultation on housing policies runs until 13th October. During this time, residents are encouraged to share their views and opinions on the proposed changes. The council is also planning to provide better advice and information about alternative housing options like private renting, affordable renting, and subsidized home ownership.

Armed services personnel and their families may be eligible for social housing following their discharge from the Forces. This is one of the limited measures being considered to expand eligibility for the waiting list in specific circumstances.

It is important to note that the consultation is still ongoing, and the final decision has not yet been made. Residents are encouraged to participate in the consultation to ensure their voices are heard and to help shape the future of social housing in the borough.

The council is committed to providing affordable housing options for all residents and is working to address the unprecedented demand for subsidized housing in the borough. The proposed changes are part of this effort to ensure that the limited resources available are used effectively to help those in the greatest need.

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