Housing Assistance Policy consultation

The consultation findings and feedback on the key messages are now available. The findings were discussed by the Council's Places Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 27 November 2023 and go to Cabinet on 10 January 2024, to help inform the new Housing Assistance Policy.

Background

The Council's Housing Assistance Policy sets out the range of financial assistance available for disabled adaptations and housing conditions.

All local authorities must provide Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) to all those who are eligible. DFGs are available to provide adaptations to enable independent living. Examples include ramps, stair lifts, level access showers and door widening.

In addition to DFGs, local authorities are able to offer a wider range of discretionary financial assistance, for disabled adaptations and to help homeowners whose homes are falling into disrepair, but cannot afford to make the repairs themselves. To provide this discretionary assistance, local authorities must have a Housing Assistance Policy.

The draft policy sets out the eligibility criteria, conditions and application processes for the various forms of assistance, to enable people and professionals to access the information and apply for assistance as easily as possible.

How to get involved and have your say

The Council is committed to enabling residents and stakeholders to be involved in this consultation. Please have your voice heard by completing our survey. Analysis of the results will enable us to shape the Housing Assistance Policy to best reflect the needs of the Borough and fulfil its aims.

To get involved, please take a look at the following document:

The consultation will be running over a 12-week period from Monday 19 June 2023 until Sunday 10 September 2023.

Other ways to take part

For any enquiries relating to this strategy please:

• Email: housingstrategy@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk
• Telephone: 0300 123 8 123 quoting ‘Housing Assistance Policy'
• Write to: Housing Strategy, Cheshire West and Chester Council, The Portal, Wellington Road, Ellesmere Port, CH65 0BA

Paper copies of the survey and alternative formats can also be requested using the contact details above.

What will my views be used for?

Feedback from the consultation will be used to shape and develop the final policy.

What happens next?

Following the consultation and development of the final policy, it will go to Scrutiny and then Cabinet in Autumn/Winter 2023-24 for approval.

Accessibility

Council information is also available in audio, Braille, large print or other formats. If you would like a copy in a different format, in another language or require a BSL interpreter, please email equalities@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk, telephone 0300 123 8 123 or textphone 18001 01606 275 757.