Issue - meetings

To consider the call-in of the Executive decision of 15 September 2026 in relation to Housing Allocations Scheme Review.

To approve the new Southwark Housing Allocations Scheme 2026

12.  Housing Allocations Scheme Review

Councillor Corn left the meeting for the discussion and consideration of this item

RESOLVED

That the following recommendations be approved:

That the Executive:

1.  approves the new Southwark Housing Allocations Scheme 2026 for implementation, including the following key changes:

2.  removing “working in the borough” as an automatic qualification criterion;

3.  introducing a five-band structure, with homeless households without additional preference placed in Band D and a new Band E created for households with low housing need;

4.  allowing Band E applicants to bid for advertised accommodation, while recognising their lower priority;

5.  Removing additional priority within bands via the priority stars system;

6.  confirming the levels of overcrowding that apply within each priority band;

7.  increasing priority for Southwark care leavers;

8.  raising the ceiling age for same-sex siblings sharing a bedroom to 20 years; and

9.  confirming the use of Local Lettings Plans and an Annual Lettings Plan alongside priority banding to support the fair and effective allocation of social housing.

10.the implementation of the new Management Transfer Policy, as set out at Appendix C, to operate alongside the revised Housing Allocations Scheme. The policy will provide a clear and consistent framework for managing urgent and essential management moves, supporting tenant safety, effective housing management, and the best use of available stock.

11.agree that a review of the new Scheme be carried out after 12 months of operation and reported to the Lead Member

That the following recommendation be noted:

That the Executive:

1. notes the associated resource implications and costs of implementing the new scheme.