Allocations Policy summary

This summary provides an overview of our full Allocations Policy.

Purpose

Sets out the rules on who can apply to join a housing register for social housing in Gateshead.
States how applications are assessed in terms of types of housing need and the level of priority awarded.
Sets out rules on which types of property each type of household will be eligible for.
Makes sure homes are allocated fairly to people who need them most.

Only people who qualify can join the housing register.
Applicants can bid for properties that are an appropriate size and type for their household.
Policy sets out how applicants will be ranked for properties they have expressed interest in.
Be fair and open - applicants who bid for a property can see where they were placed.
Treat everyone equally and support those who need extra help.

Gives applicants choice in where they want to live while meeting the council's legal duties.
Use a clear banding system based on housing need and waiting time.
Make the best use of the social housing stock to meet housing needs.
Keep the system up to date and fair.

Number of households on the register in each band and waiting-time trends.
Monitor number of properties let to eligible applicants, including those with priority awards.
Updating and reviewing policies: changes go through Cabinet and public consultation.

You can apply if you're 16+ and have a local connection (although applicants under 18 cannot legally hold a tenancy).

Your application will be placed in one of four 'bands' of housing need.

You can bid for homes of an appropriate size and type advertised through Gateshead Home Choice.

Bids will be ranked in order according to the policy.

Support is available for those who need it.