Agenda item

This paper updates the Committee on the current situation with the York Allocations Policy.

Members considered a report on the York Housing Allocations Policy. They enquired about whether there have been any changes in the types of households that are applying for social housing due to the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis and Officers explained that there has been an overall increase in numbers but not a large change in patterns at present. They went on to explain that they are extremely mindful of any changes that may occur as the future is very uncertain now.

The issue of council tax banding on newly built social housing was discussed as it can become a barrier for and unaffordable to people on low incomes/benefit recipients as they may be unable to cover the high taxes and charges. Officers explained that the Council does not have control of this as the tax is calculated on the house price and type but there are benefits such as Council Tax Support and Discretionary Housing Payment available for such residents. They also suggested that it may be useful to investigate the type of housing that is built and ask for a mix of housing types from developers to mitigate these issues. 

Members also raised questions about the possibility to complete retrofitting works while homes are vacant. Officers explained that they are looking into these prospects but that at present this process would take too long so the focus is on retrofitting properties that are already occupied. 

Members asked for an update on the Mental Health cluster unit concept and what is being done to move the project along to completion. Officers stated that there were initial issues with finding a developer but are now revisiting the model and setting up a mental health housing panel to move complex cases into the pathway. They confirmed one of the two proposed buildings was built and is currently being used to house homeless families.

Questions were raised about housing accessibility and quality for care leavers and young people, including whether they can keep their accommodation if they move out of the city to attend university during holidays. Officers responded that they are not able to keep stock for university students but may be able to investigate this issue further before reassuring Members that care leavers who return permanently are given high priority for housing. They also explained that they have had some challenges with housing stock and had a backlog of repairs during the Covid period, but this is now improving, and they are having meetings with young people to develop housing.

Housing for offenders was discussed and questions surrounding how the Council supports them when they are released so they are not homeless arose and Officers explained that there are a lot of difficulties with this due to lack of support, advice, and resources. Members highlighted the importance of the Council relinquishing tenancies at the earliest point of someone being sent into custody so that they are not acquiring rent arrears which will then become a barrier upon release. Officers suggested having a refresher of this protocol with staff and will re-engage with probation staff to make sure they are aware and mindful of this issue. 

Officers provided some suggestions on things Members can do to support Housing Options staff which included providing feedback on any IT issues. They also requested that people are conscious of the reality of the housing market in York and be willing to look at other options, such as shared ownership and private sector options to help staff and their workload.

Resolved:

          i. That the report on York Allocations Policy be noted.

Reason: To keep the Committee updated on York's approach to the housing waiting list and vulnerable groups.