Consultation on reforms to social housing allocations

We have submitted a full response to the government’s consultation on reforms to social housing allocations.

Consultation

In January 2024, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) launched a consultation on reforms to social housing allocations, following engagement with our members, we have now submitted a response on behalf of the sector.

A summary of our response

A good quality, affordable home should be a right for everyone. Having access to good quality, affordable homes builds thriving communities and makes savings for the public purse. 
 
We are currently experiencing an acute housing emergency in England, with 8.5 million people unable to access the housing they need. A record number of children living are currently living in temporary accommodation. 

Social housing is a finite resource, and it should be available to those with the highest housing need. However, we do not believe that these proposals will address the root causes of the housing emergency in this country.

We would welcome further consideration on:

• We believe imposing additional requirements for social housing applicants to demonstrate their connection to the UK could pose harmful consequences. 
• We are concerned about unintended consequences of a ‘three strikes policy’, and the potential to lead to increased evictions and homelessness. 
• Local authorities retaining discretion on the implementation of qualification tests, including the local connection and income test, and the flexibility to introduce additional qualification criteria on anti-social behaviour.

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