Application review

The responsibility for determination of applications for housing under the Homelessness Legislation falls within the Portfolio of the Deputy Leader (Community Services).

The initial determination on a homelessness decision is currently made by the Housing Services Manager (Operations) and suitability of a property by the Senior Homelessness and Advice Officer. If an applicant disagrees with either of these decisions they may within 21 days of being notified of it, or longer if the authority agrees to an extension of time request a review of the decision by the Local Authority concerning:-

Whether he/she is eligible for assistance under Part VII of the Housing Act 1996 as amended by the Homelessness Act 2002.

Any decision of a housing authority as to what duty is owed (if any) to the applicant, under the homelessness legislation. Whether the case should be referred to another local authority for consideration and if the conditions of referral have been met.

Any decision as to the suitability of accommodation offered to the applicant under the homelessness legislation.

Any decision as to ineligibility to be included on the Council’s Housing Register.

Constitution of the Review Panel

The Panel will comprise of Deputy Leader (Community Services), a member of the majority party and a member of the opposition party.