Housing benefit will be kept in place for all those living in
supported housing, the Government has announced.
Ministers recognise that supported housing is a vital service for
some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, and last
year consulted on possible alternative funding options.
Having listened to views from providers, stakeholders and
councils, the Government has decided housing benefit will remain
in place to fund this accommodation.
Housing Minister, MP, said:
“Protection of the most vulnerable has always been our primary
concern, and following our consultation, the case for keeping
supported housing in the welfare system became clear.
“The sector also recognised that
our aim of improving the quality of homes must be addressed, and
we look forward to now working with partners to make sure we have
strong measures in place.”
Minister for Family Support, Housing and Child
Maintenance, MP, said:
“We are committed to ensuring that vulnerable people have
access to the supported housing they need to live safely and
independently.
“We value the expertise of stakeholders and have listened
carefully to their concerns during the consultation.
“As a result we will continue to pay housing benefit for all
supported housing –making sure safe homes are provided for those
that need it most.”
Alongside this, Government has also today announced that it will
work with providers, local authorities, membership bodies and
resident representatives over the coming months to develop a
robust oversight regime. This work will ensure quality and value
for money across the whole supported housing sector.
In addition, a review of housing related support will be
undertaken to better understand how housing and support currently
fit together.
Ends
Notes to Editor
- Supported
housing provides a home to some of the most vulnerable people
across country. It gives people in crisis – such as those facing
homelessness or fleeing domestic violence – a secure place to
stay. It also provides a life-long home for those with learning
and physical disabilities, mental ill-health and older people,
providing independence.
- Last year
the Government published
proposals on new ways of funding supported housing.
These models included grant funding for short-term provision,
such as hostels and refuges, and a ‘Sheltered Rent’ for
sheltered and extra care housing. Under the grant model,
councils would have received funding and paid short-term
supported housing rents at their discretion.
- Now that
Government has opted to keep funding within housing benefit, this
means residents will claim housing benefit as usual, with their
rent normally being paid directly to their landlord.
