Do you have a medical need
If your current home is causing you problems because of ill health and a move to another property would alleviate the difficulties you are experiencing, then you may be awarded a Band One status under the terms of the HomeChoice scheme.
Awarding Band One status based on medical need is the responsibility of Gateshead Council. The criteria to be awarded Band One status is detailed below.
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You are currently in hospital and cannot be discharged as your current home is not suitable for your needs.
This also includes being moved from hospital to repsite care, intermediate care, or other short term solutions that are of a temporary nature.
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A specialist health professional has stated that your physical health condition is such that if you do not move your life may be at risk. This includes such serious and degenerative illnesses such as Parkinsons Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, acute medical conditions that relate to failure of major organs and any other major illness.
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A consultant psychiatrist has recommended that due to your recognised pschological ailment if you do not move from your home your life would be at risk.
How do I apply?
After you have completed a housing application form |you will need to complete a medical priority application form. You can get a form from the Local Offices of The Gateshead Housing Company, from Gateshead Council Housing Services at the Civic Centre in Gateshead or by downloading the form at the top of this page.
By signing the application form you are giving us your permission to contact your doctor or consultant for further information.
All of the information you give will be kept confidential. No information will be given out without your written permission.
Do I need Doctor's letters?
You do not need to ask your doctor for a letter. If you do have any letters of support, which you think we should see please give us these with your application form.
What happens when I return my medical priority application form?
Once a decision has been made on your application Gateshead Council Housing Services will write to you informing you of the decision that has been made, the reasons for the decision and the type of property recommended to alleviate the difficulties you have identified.
It may be recommended that you need a property which has been adapted to provide a ramp/level access shower or a stair lift. If this is the case then you will be awarded Band One priority status.
Once you have been awarded Band One priority status, you can make bids through advertised properties on HomeChoice. However, the majority of adapted properties will not be advertised through HomeChoice and will be referred to the lettings team (Health and Housing) who will identify applicants who require the adaptations.
What happens if my medical condition gets worse?
If you have previously been refused Band One status but feel that your condition has worsened you can ask at any time for your circumstances to be reconsidered by the panel by completing a new medical priority application form.
Applicants registered with a Band One Status will be reviewed at regular intervals.
Where can I get further information?
You can contact the Health and Housing Team in Housing Services at the Civic Centre, Tel: 0191 433 2637
You can also e-mail the Health and Housing Team|