Reply - Q3 CBL for Transfers

To ask the Manager, in view of the fact that the Choice Based Letting system is now rolled out across all the Housing Waiting Lists, to outline when it is intended to make pin numbers available to those on the Transfer Lists, to allow them access to the Choice Based Letting system?

The Choice based Letting Scheme is to assist Housing Applicants seeking standard accommodation. It enables them to express interest in vacant properties from our on-line Choice Based Letting system. It has been a great success in reducing the amount of time spent in sourcing tenants for these properties. Those housing applicants with specific needs continue to be allocated using the traditional system of allocation to ensure that the property and associated supports match their needs.

It was intended to include those on the transfer lists in the Choice Based Letting System but it will require extensive modifications of the Website and background processing software to enable this to be put in place. As a review of the housing IT systems is currently underway it is premature to make those changes at this time. However the matter will be reviewed early next year.

Currently, we are exploring the concept of a Mutual Exchange Website for tenants to register and advertise their interest in swapping accommodation subject to Council approval. It is anticipated that this will open a greater supply of available properties to participating tenants and permit them to have an opportunity to select the property in a location which suits their needs. This concept will be brough to the next Housing and Social Development SPC.