135 Implementation Plan for the "Key Choices" Choice-Based Letting Service PDF 44 KB
- report of Community Services Manager
Additional documents:
Minutes:
In accordance with Minute No. 185 of the Cabinet Member for Housing and Environmental Services meeting held on 14th March, 2005, the Panel considered a report of the Community Services Manager on the “Key Choices” Choice-Based Letting Service. A power point presentation was given as follows:-
§ The Background – White Paper on the Future of Housing, Government Pilot and findings. The Government required all authorities to be operating such a scheme by 2010.
§ ALMO Excellence Plan – the scheme had been identified as a pre-requisite in defining excellence in housing management by ALMOs by the Audit Commission
§ Strategic Links – Regional Humberside Strategy for Yorkshire and Humberside (2003), Rotherham’s Community Strategy, the Corporate Plan, the Housing Strategy and the Shadow Supporting People Strategy
§ What is “Key Choices”?
Rotherham’s new approach to lettings
Simpler, faster more transparent method
More choice for the customer
Puts the customer in control
Better place to live, learn and work
§ Consultation Process and feedback, both customer and staff
§ Fair and Equal Access
§ Implementation Plan
§ Training Plan
§ Key Choices Letting Policy
Amends the Allocation Scheme
Simpler way of accessing accommodation
50/50 approach Priority = Need
General = Waiting time
Scope for specialist properties not to be advertised – adapted, 4 bed,
Sheltered, Extra Care Housing
Priority Band Homelessness (time limited)
Medical Need – Adapted
Homes subject to repair
Statutory overcrowded
Awarded in exceptional circumstances
General Band Waiting time
§ Key Choices Procedures
Void Process – Termination
Advertising
Marketing and receiving requests
Support for Vulnerable People
Selection Process
Verification Process
Offer – refusal/acceptance
Sign Up
Waiting time guide and letting results
§ Choice Based Lettings Process Week One
4 weeks termination notice received
Exit interview conducted the same day
Appointment made for pre-inspection
Pre-inspection sheet completed
Digital photograph taken of property
Neighbourhood Champion completes property advert section
Include local lettings criteria, amenities, furnished, decent home etc.
E-mail photograph and advert to keychoices@rotherham.gov.uk
Deadline for information Friday 4.00 p.m.
§ Choice Based Lettings Week Two/Three
Week Two –
Advertisement produced
Mailing list produced
Week Three -
Tuesday mailing lists posted
Tuesday 4.00 p.m. – previous week’s adverts removed
Wednesday 10.30 a.m. – new adverts displayed
Property requests commence for 7 days
§ Choice Based Lettings Week Three/Four
Week Three –
Wednesday 10.30 a.m. – 7 day advertising cycle starts
Week Four –
Tuesday 4.00 p.m. – property advertising cycle closes
Shortlist compiled and sent to relevant office
Application details verified, rent and recharges checked etc.
If eligible make offer and arrange viewing
§ Choice Based Lettings Process Week Four
Property accepted – sign up to be arranged
Keys should be received from the previous tenant on the following Monday
Keys to void repair – Health and Safety checks
Property refused or withdrawn, offer to next eligible applicant on shortlist
If no requests received, re-advertise as Direct Home on a 1st come 1st served basis
Send letter details to Housing Options Team to compile ... view the full minutes text for item 135