Housing benefit will be kept in place for all those living in supported housing, the Government has announced today.
Last year the Government consulted on possible new ways of funding supported housing. These models included grant funding for short-term provision. Under the grant model, councils would have received funding and paid short-term supported housing rents at their discretion. Having listened to views from providers, including YMCA England & Wales, the Government has decided housing benefit will remain in place to fund this accommodation.
Responding to the announcement Denise Hatton, Chief Executive for YMCA England & Wales, said:
“YMCA welcomes that the Government have listened to our concerns and those of the sector and have taken action to put funding for ‘short-term’ supported housing on a more secure footing within the social security system.
“Providing quality and value for money remain key components of the supported housing sector and the Government are right to ensure that both are delivered. As the largest providers of supported housing for young people in England & Wales, YMCA remain committed to working with the Government to ensure that those who depend on us for a roof over their head continue to be able to access safe and supportive places to live.”