Posted 02.01.14
New statutory guidance has been published that aims to ensure that people with a long-standing connection to their local community are prioritised for council homes.
The guidance makes clear that only hard-working families, with a well-established residency, relatives or a job in the local area can go on their council's waiting list, so they are the first to benefit when homes become available.
To reassure local people that they are being treated fairly, councils are encouraged to publish information about who is applying for and getting social housing in their area.
Announcing the new guidance, Communities Secretary Eric Pickles said - the Government is determined to restore fairness to a system that many people believe is often skewed against the local people it is designed to support.
The new guidance will confirm that members of the Armed Forces, who are often unable to settle in one area for a long time, are considered a priority for housing.
Use this link to view the guidance in full.
