Demand for Social Housing Persistently Outstrips Supply in Northern Ireland

Research commissioned by the Department of Social Development reveals that the social sector would need to grow by 37% for it to house all those currenly on the waiting list for social housing in Northern Ireland. Social Development Minister, Mervyn Storey MLA, has published a summary of responses to independent research commissioned by the Department to help inform a review of the allocation of social housing.

The Department, delivering on a commitment set out in the Housing Strategy, had commissioned three research reports. The reports, which were prepared by the Universities of Ulster and Cambridge, examined the current allocation system, looked at best practice elsewhere and made recommendations for changes to how social housing is allocated.

The Department sought public views on this research and officials today provided the Social Development Committee with the summary of responses.

Minister Storey said: ''The allocation of social homes is a hugely important issue and I wish to thank the many people who wrote to the Department or attended the events in Belfast, Craigavon and Londonderry. ''

''Our social homes are a valuable public asset. The principle of these homes being allocated to those in the greatest need is paramount. It is nevertheless right to take time to review how the system is working and to consider whether it might be improved. ''

''My Department will give further consideration to the recommendations in the independent report, and the views expressed from respondents.''

The summary report is available on the Department''s website at: www.dsdni.gov.uk/index/hsdiv-housing/allocations-research.htm
Social Development Minister, Mervyn Storey MLA, has published a summary of responses to independent research commissioned by the Department to help inform a review of the allocation of social housing.

The Department, delivering on a commitment set out in the Housing Strategy, had commissioned three research reports. The reports, which were prepared by the Universities of Ulster and Cambridge, examined the current allocation system, looked at best practice elsewhere and made recommendations for changes to how social housing is allocated.

The Department sought public views on this research and officials today provided the Social Development Committee with the summary of responses.

Minister Storey said: ''The allocation of social homes is a hugely important issue and I wish to thank the many people who wrote to the Department or attended the events in Belfast, Craigavon and Londonderry. ''

Our social homes are a valuable public asset. The principle of these homes being allocated to those in the greatest need is paramount. It is nevertheless right to take time to review how the system is working and to consider whether it might be improved.

My Department will give further consideration to the recommendations in the independent report, and the views expressed from respondents.

The summary report is available on the Department''s website at: www.dsdni.gov.uk/index/hsdiv-housing/allocations-research.htm