All supported housing funding will be retained in the welfare system, putting an end to the plan to fund short-term accommodation through council grants, the government has revealed
The government confirmed that housing benefit will be kept in place for all those living in supported housing.
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.
After considering views from providers, stakeholders and councils, the government decided housing benefit will remain in place to fund this accommodation.
Housing Minister, Kit Malthouse 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.”
Justin Tomlinson, Minister for Family Support, Housing and Child Maintenance, 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.”
In conjunction with this, government has also 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 aim to 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.
