Housing benefit will be kept in place for all those living in supported housing, the government has announced.
Supported housing gives people in crisis - such as those facing homelessness or fleeing domestic violence - a secure place to stay.
But it also provides a life-long home for those with learning and physical disabilities, mental ill-health and older people.
Last year the Government had consulted on proposals on new ways of funding supported housing. These models included grant funding for short-term provision, such as hostels and refuges, and a ‘Sheltered Rent’ for sheltered and extra care housing.
Under the grant model, councils would have received funding and paid short-term supported housing rents at their discretion.
But having considered the responses, the Government has decided housing benefit will remain in place to fund this accommodation.
Housing Minister, Kit Malthouse MP, said:
“Protection of the most vulnerable has always been our primary concern, and following our consultation, the case for keeping supported housing in the welfare system became clear.
The sector also recognised that our aim of improving the quality of homes must be addressed, and we look forward to now working with partners to make sure we have strong measures in place.”
The Government has also today announced that it will work with providers, local authorities, membership bodies and resident representatives over the coming months to develop “a robust oversight regime”.
In addition, a review of housing related support will be undertaken to better understand how housing and support currently fit together.
For more information see All supported housing funding to be retained in welfare system.