Warrington Borough Council would like to consult with members of the public and people on the waiting list for social housing (Called Under One Roof) about the proposed changes to the allocation of social housing in Warrington.

Key information and changes

Housing Allocations Policy for the allocation of social housing in Warrington

• The current housing allocations policy introduced in 2017 following extensive consultation and approval by the Members Executive.
• The policy is delivered on behalf of the council by Under One Roof – a service owned by Torus Group (the largest social housing provider in Warrington).
• Under section 170 of the 1996 Housing Act, it is a requirement of registered providers to co-operate with the Local Authority as much as is reasonable in offering accommodation to people with priority from under the Local Authority’s allocation scheme

Main findings following consultation so far:

• No acknowledgement or sufficient priority for overcrowded households.
• No priority for households under occupying.
• Level of capital and income for exclusion needed review.
• Allow social care to sponsor clients with no mental capacity to apply for social housing (with full support package)
• Allow 16/17 yr olds leaving care to obtain social housing, sponsored and supported by social care until age 18.
• Exceptional lets where need identified by Hard to House Panel and approved by Head of Housing.
• Direct-lets OR Choice Based Lettings?

Main changes from current policy:

• More bands to ensure recognition of different circumstances.
• Increased levels of priority for those overcrowded households
• Priority banding for those households who are under occupying.
• Changes to the qualification rules about capital – now linked to upper limit of DWP.

Giving your feedback

Please email any comments to housingstrategy@warrington.gov.uk

Closing date

This consultation will close on 20 September 2024 please make sure to email any comments you may have before this date.