Resident opinions wanted on social housing consultation

Review to take place on changes to allocation

Residents are being asked to give their opinion to a social housing consultation.

The Housing Agency, on behalf of the Department of Infrastructure wants people to share their views on proposed changes to income thresholds and other elements of public sector housing allocation.

The Public Sector Housing Policy 2019 is undergoing a 'full review' with three key proposals. 

These are:

1. Updating income eligibility thresholds for public sector housing and introducing automatic annual uplifts.
2. Removing certain ‘priority’ points that do not accurately reflect housing need.
3. Introducing greater discretion for local housing authorities in respect of residential requirements.

It seeks to improve fairness, clarity and consistency in the allocation of social housing, and remaining responsive to 'changing household circumstances'. 

The Department says public help with the consultation will:

• Gain insight into real‑life experiences of accessing and applying for public sector housing.
• Identify potential unintended consequences of the proposed changes.
• Assess whether the proposals are fair, clear and workable for households and communities.
• Ensure the policy reflects local needs and values, not solely administrative considerations.
• Strengthen transparency and accountability in housing allocation decisions.

On the review Infrastructure Minister Tim Crookall says: ‘Public sector housing policy affects thousands of people across the Island, including applicants, tenants and their families. 

'The Department recognises that while data and policy analysis are important, they cannot fully capture the lived experiences of those navigating the housing system.’

You can find more about the consultation here.