Decision Maker: Housing Policy Committee

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: January 29, 2026

Purpose: Approval of a policy detailing our approach to customers with vulnerabilities.

Content: 10.1 The Committee considered a report of the Executive Director of Neighbourhood Services which sought approval of the Vulnerability Policy for the Housing Service designed to ensure the service identifies and removes barriers so that customers can access housing services and ultimately benefit from a successful and sustainable tenancy.     10.2 RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the Housing Policy Committee:- (a)  Approves the Housing Service Vulnerability Policy in the form attached to the report at Appendix A. (b)  Grants delegated authority to the Director of Housing in consultation with the Chair of the Housing Policy Committee to where necessary make any minor amendments and updates to the policy required, in order to reflect any organisational or legislative changes which take place prior to the policy being formally reviewed by the Housing Policy Committee.         10.3 Reasons for Decision     10.3.1 It is recommended that the Housing Policy Committee approve the Policy for implementation.     10.3.2 It is recommended that the Housing Policy Committee grants delegated authority to the Director of Housing in consultation with the Chair of the Housing Policy Committee to where necessary make any minor amendments and updates to the policy required, in order to reflect any organisational or legislative changes which take place prior to the policy being formally reviewed by the Housing Policy Committee.     10.3.3       10.4 Alternatives Considered and Rejected     10.4.1 Alternative Option 1: Council wide policy. Consideration was given to if a whole Council approach to the issues contained within the Policy would be a more appropriate and effective solution. However, as the Housing Service are subject to Housing Ombudsman determinations and guidance on the issue of vulnerability, it was concluded that a service-specific policy is required to achieve the intended outcomes.   In addition, the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) oversees compliance with standards for social housing providers, with a particular emphasis on neighbourhood management, safety, transparency, influence, accountability, and tenancy standards. This Policy is a critical mechanism for demonstrating that the Housing Service meets its obligations under the ‘Transparency, Influence and Accountability Standard’, ensuring that the diverse needs of tenants are recognised and addressed     10.4.2 Alternative option 2: Implementation through an internal procedure or framework. Consideration was given to delivering this service development via an internal procedure or framework. However, given the significance of the issue and the Council’s statutory obligations, such an approach would not adequately reflect the importance of these matters. Adopting a formal public policy provides clear alignment with wider Council strategies and objectives, while ensuring appropriate governance through Housing Policy Committee oversight and enabling external scrutiny.