Content

12.1

Members considered a report of
the Executive Director, Neighbourhood Services seeking approval
from the Housing Policy Committee to review the Council’s
Allocations Policy. The report summarises the challenges faced by
the Council with how the current policy operates and highlights key
areas where change should be considered to improve outcomes for
some of the most vulnerable residents of Sheffield. It was
recommended that Committee approve a review of the current
Allocations Policy and agree the approach which should be
taken.

 

 

12.2

RESOLVED
UNANIMOUSLY: That the Housing Policy
Committee:-
 
1. Approves the proposal to
commence a review of the Council’s Allocations
Policy.
2. Approves the approach to
consultation as set out in Section 2.3 of this report.

 

 

12.3

Reasons for Decision

12.3.1

The Allocations Policy has not
been fully reviewed since it was agreed in 2013. Reviewing the
Allocations Policy will ensure the Council is making best use of
its, and Registered Providers social housing stock and reflect the
current demand for social housing. It will ensure that rehousing
outcomes are improved for those with a recognised housing need and
owed legal duties by the Council.

12.3.2

The Allocations Policy does not
reflect the implementation of Introductory Tenancies, or the likely
introduction of Flexible Tenancies, it also requires review to
ensure it is legally compliant.

 

 

12.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

12.4.1

Alternative Option 1: Do
nothing. The Council could choose to not review the Allocations
Policy. However, not reviewing the policy would mean that the
policy remains no longer fit for purpose and not legally
compliant.

12.4.2

Partial review; only amend the
Allocations Policy so that it is lawful. Whilst this would resolve
the issues of legal challenge the broader issues highlighted in
this report would remain. Residents of Sheffield in a Reasonable
Preference category would see the waiting time to be made an offer
continue to increase, adapted properties would not be let to those
with the most need for those adaptations and more households would
be placed into emergency accommodation.