Minister unveils plans for social housing standards

Housing Minister, Lesley Griffiths, has today set out plans to ensure all social housing in Wales is safe, secure and fit for purpose.

The Welsh Government is planning to introduce mandatory quality standards which will replace the current non-statutory standards for Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) and Local Housing Associations (LHA). The standards would apply to the existing 222,000 social homes in Wales and all new social housing properties built with Welsh Government support.

The quality of social housing in Wales continues to rise, with 72% of all social housing meeting the quality standard set by the Welsh Government. Good standards in social housing are important, particularly in light of the country’s ageing population. Ensuring homes meet the needs of their occupants saves money by reducing people’s fuel bills and alleviating pressure on the NHS. Taking steps which allow people to live safely and independently in their own home prevents many from having to be admitted to hospital and enables many of those who are in hospital to be discharged earlier.

The Welsh Government currently uses the Welsh Housing Quality Standard and Development Quality Requirements to ensure people live in a decent home, but this consultation is about putting these standards onto a firmer footing. The Welsh Government has today launched a twelve week consultation on the proposals. All individuals and organisations with an interest in the changes are encouraged to have their say.

Lesley Griffiths, Minister with responsibility for Housing said:

“Quality social housing helps transform the lives of thousands of Wales’ most vulnerable people, enabling them to live in a safe, secure and warm home.

“Investment in people’s homes has a far-reaching impact. As people live longer, our social housing is playing an increasingly important role in supporting our Health and Social Services.

“This is why we are taking decisive action to protect and improve Wales’ social housing stock. As well as investing £108 million each year in our existing social housing stock , I recently pledged an additional £21.7 million to support the construction of over 250 new affordable homes in Wales during 2016/17.”