The guidance makes clear that essential moves should
continue over this period, where it can be done in line
with social distancing guidance.
This includes domestic abuse victims who may be fleeing
abusive relationships, people who are homeless and
leaving temporary accommodation or individuals leaving
hospital.
If people are able to move into a more settled home over
this period, it could free up space in temporary
accommodation or in hospitals and other healthcare
settings, helping more people get access to the help or
medical support they need.
Housing Minister MP said:
This is a daunting and uncertain time for everyone
around the country – especially for those who need a
more settled home.
Wherever possible councils and housing associations
should continue to support those fleeing abusive
relationships or leaving hospital after an illness – to
move into decent and more settled homes.
By doing this we will not only help vulnerable people
into settled homes but we can also free up more
hospital beds and save lives during this pandemic.
The guidance also recognises the importance of
cooperation between local partners in order to support
those who are vulnerable during this time and will be
kept under review whilst the emergency measures are in
place.
Non-essential moves, such as home transfers, should be
paused during this period, in order to help reduce the
spread of the infection. This is to ensure the safety,
health and welfare of tenants, applicants and members of
staff.
People should delay moving to a new home while emergency
measures are in place to fight coronavirus.
The guidance published today says that all social
landlords should prioritise essential moves and do what
they can to ensure these can take place, when safe to do
so.
Essential moves include:
- supporting victims of domestic abuse and people
fleeing violence
- preventing severe overcrowding
- helping people move-on from temporary accommodation
to make this accommodation available to others
- supporting discharge from hospital to free-up bed
space for others requiring care
- supporting those living in un-safe accommodation, or
without settled accommodation, which poses a risk to
their health
Where moves or transfers do have to take place, landlords
have a responsibility to carry out these functions in
line with the latest government advice on social
distancing. This message should be communicated clearly
to applicants.
The guidance is available online. We
will continue to review this in line with the most recent
government advice to ensure the safety of everyone in the
social housing sector.
