Allocations Policy - Part 3

What information would you need with my application?

You need to supply us with proof of your current housing circumstances.

For example - a copy of your tenancy agreement.

Medical circumstances

If you wish to be re-housed due to medical circumstances you may be asked to complete an additional form. This will ask for details about your medical condition and your current property. Medical points will only be awarded once this form has been completed and returned to the housing section. We will then use this information to assess how your medical circumstances will be improved if you were re-housed.

Provision of support or care for family members

If you provide support or care for another person and you wish to move closer, you can be awarded additional points. You will need to provide evidence of the care package provided, for example, a letter from Social Services, a copy of the Care Allowance awarded. You may wish to refer to the Better Care, Higher Standards Charter. Details of which can be found at the Housing Section, Social Services or your local Doctor.

Loss of accommodation

Please note if your landlord serves you with a notice to leave your current home they still have to go to court to get a court order to get you to leave. If your landlord tries to get you to leave without a court order they may be liable to prosecution under the prevention of illegal eviction act 1977.

Please supply copies of your notice of Seeking Possession served by your landlord or your Court Order.

What happens when you receive my application?

Your application will be processed and your points allocated. You will be sent a letter telling you your application number and how many points you have been given. If after this you contact us regarding your application either in person or in writing, it is important that you quote your application number.

We may visit you to check your application form and take details of social and/or medical problems which may entitle you to additional points, but only if they are worsened by your current housing circumstances. We may ask for a letter in support of your application or alternatively confirmation from other agencies involved such as Social Services, Education, Solicitor or Police.

How often should I contact you about my application

You only need to contact us if you have any changes to your housing circumstances or family make-up.

Examples are change of address or if you have another child.

If your turn comes up on the housing register we will contact you. If you do not tell us about any changes you may not be allocated the correct amount of points.

How long does my application last?

You must re-register your application every year on the form that we will send to you. You must also tell us of any changes in your circumstances.  If you do not return this form to us it will be assumed that you no longer wish to remain on the housing register and your application will be cancelled. If you have any problems completing the form let us know and we will help you.

What if I do not agree with the points I have been allocated?

If you do not agree with the points you have been awarded you can ask for them to be re-assessed. You will need to tell us why you think the amount should be different. You must also remember to check that you have provided us with all the necessary information to support your application.

You may also use the our complaint procedure.

If you have been awarded minus points for rent arrears, debt or anti-social behaviour and you wish these to be waived you can make an appeal to the Services Committee.  You will be asked to provide written evidence as to why you think that these minus points should be taken off.  You may be able to provide supporting evidence from a solicitor, Shelter, Social Services and so on.  You may be asked to attend this meeting. Councillors will then decide based on the evidence if the points should be removed even if the debt still exists.