A new consultation on the county’s social housing allocations policy is now open—and your input is crucial. Whether you’re a resident of Consett or elsewhere in County Durham, this is your chance to shape how social housing is allocated to those in greatest need.
What’s Happening
Durham County Council and its partners are reviewing the Housing Allocations Policy that sets the criteria for who gets access to social housing. The policy was last thoroughly updated in 2017, and since then, rising demand, fewer available properties, and legislative changes have made a review essential. With a 30% increase in the waiting list post-pandemic, and bids per property up from 4 to 44, it’s clear that the system needs to be reassessed to remain fair, transparent, and responsive to current challenges.
Key Issues
- Who Qualifies?
Considering factors like local connection, behaviour standards, genuine housing need, and financial status. - Using Existing Homes Better
Exploring ways to make best use of the housing stock, especially larger properties in short supply. - Local Lettings Policies
Ensuring localised policies don’t conflict with the wider countywide approach. - Homelessness
Reviewing how people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness are prioritised. - Medical & Domestic Abuse Cases
Making sure those with medical needs or fleeing domestic abuse receive appropriate priority. - Monitoring & Service Standards
Improving how allocations are tracked to maintain high-quality service standards.
Take Part
The first phase of consultation runs until 12 March 2025. During this period, you can:
- Complete the Online Survey
- Attend Online Public Sessions (12th February 2025 at 10:30–12:00 and 19th February 2025 at 18:00–19:30)
- Find your Local Area Action Partnership (AAP) meeting
- Pick up Printed Copies from libraries and customer access points
- Request Information in Alternative Formats by emailing: letstalkcountydurham@durham.gov.uk
Link to the consultation platform:
https://letstalkcountydurham.co.uk/en-GB/folders/socialhousingpolicyreview
Here, you’ll also discover a variety of ways to share your views, from surveys and polls to discussions and online mapping. While you’re there, explore Let’s Talk County Durham, which is a new consultation and engagement platform allowing you to be actively involved in local decision-making.
Why It Matters
With the number of people looking for social housing far outweighing the properties available, it’s vital we work together to devise rules that are both equitable and practical. Consett and the wider county will benefit from a system that prioritises those most in need—whether due to homelessness, medical reasons, or other vulnerabilities.
Once the consultation closes, all feedback will be reviewed and used to draft an updated policy, which will then undergo a second phase of consultation later in 2025. Make sure your voice is heard as we plan the future of social housing in our community.
