Decision details

Councillor Pearson, Lead Executive Member for Housing, Leisure, Health and Culture presented the report that sought approval for the new Private Housing Assistance Policy following consultation. It was explained that the new policy introduced some new discretionary grants and loans as well as changes to the Disabled Facilities Grant.

The Housing and Environmental Health Service Manager explained that the policy would allow the use of discretionary powers to offer a disabled facilities grant without a means test for up to £5,000. It was noted however that an assessment of the disabled person’s needs would still need to be carried out by an Occupational Therapist.

In response to a query concerning how much of the grant allocated by the government had been used, the Housing and Environmental Health Service Manager explained that although not all of the grant had been used, the spend would increase next year as there would be increased promotion of the service

The Executive were supportive of the policy

RESOLVED:

To approve the Private Housing Assistance Policy for adoption.

REASONS FOR DECISION

To allow the Council to provide discretionary private sector assistance. Amendments introduced through the Regulatory Reform (Housing Assistance) (England and Wales) Order 2002 allow housing authorities the flexibility to provide discretionary assistance but they must publish a policy and exercise their power in accordance with their policy.