The Government confirmed its plans to set up a network of help centres to enable older people to access affordable housing. Already, eight local authorities have been asked to set up Link-Age Plus pilots:
The Link-Age Plus project will be based on the Sure Start model, which assists families living in deprived areas. It is part of a 30-point cross government plan to improve public sector services to people over the age of 50.
The Commitment follows the release of a Social Exclusion Unit report that highlights shortcomings in housing provision for older people.
The Housing Corporation announced the winners of a bid competition to select Zone Agents for the Low Cost Home Ownership element of the forthcoming £3.9 billion National Affordable Housing Programme 2006-08.
A total of 23 individual organisations will cover 37 zones across England, assuming administrative responsibilities for all Low Cost Home Ownership products in a given area. This will effectively create a one-stop-shop for all Low Cost Home Ownership applicants.
The successful organisations will be responsible for the marketing of all three Homebuy products, as well as assessing the eligibility of applicants before directing them to the local schemes which best meet their individual needs.
They will also be charged with the delivery of all homes under one of the three Homebuy options - Open Market Homebuy. This allows eligible individuals to buy a property on the open market, using their own mortgage capability assisted by an equity loan. A full list of the successful Zone Agents by region can be accessed on the Housing Corporation's website - www.housingcorp.gov.uk.
The three new Homebuy products designed to replace all other Low Cost Home Ownership options from April 2006 onwards are summarised as follows:
