Council House Application
Information Pack for Afghans on the ARAP and ACRS schemes
Council housing is provided by local authorities in the UK to offer affordable accommodation to individuals and families who are unable to secure housing through private means. Council homes are typically rented out at lower rates than those found in the private rental market. These properties are given for people with genuine housing needs, such as those experiencing homelessness, overcrowding, or financial hardship.
General Eligibility
Eligibility for a council house varies depending on the council and individual circumstances, but the following criteria are generally considered:
Residency Status: Applicants must have the right to reside in the UK, such as being a British citizen, holding Indefinite Leave to Remain, or qualifying under schemes like ARAP/ACRS.
Local Connection: Most councils require applicants to have lived, worked, or have close family ties in the area for a specific period, typically 2-5 years.
Housing Need: Councils prioritize applicants based on housing needs, which may include:
Homelessness or risk of homelessness.
Living in overcrowded or unsuitable housing.
Experiencing financial difficulties that make private rent unaffordable.
Medical or disability needs requiring specific housing adaptations.
Income and Savings: Applicants with high income or significant savings may not qualify, as council housing is intended for those with limited financial resources.
Application Process
Register with the Local Council: Applicants must first register with the housing department of their local council. This can often be done online, via a paper application, or in person.
Complete the Application Form: Provide detailed information about your:
Current housing situation.
Household composition (number of adults and children).
Medical or disability needs.
Income and savings.
Provide Supporting Documents: Councils typically require:
Proof of identity (passport, visa, etc.).
Proof of residency or local connection (utility bills, tenancy agreements).
Medical evidence if applicable.
Assessment and Banding: Once the application is reviewed, councils assign applicants to a priority band or category based on their housing needs. Bands usually range from A (highest priority) to D (lowest priority), though the exact system may differ by council.
Bidding for Properties: Most councils use a bidding system for available properties. Applicants can express interest in homes suitable for their needs. Bids are ranked based on priority banding and waiting time.
Offer of Accommodation: If successful, the council will offer a tenancy. Applicants can typically refuse a limited number of offers before their application is downgraded or suspended.
How Priorities Are Given
Councils use a points or banding system to allocate housing. Priority is generally given to:
Homeless Applicants: Those legally deemed homeless or at risk of homelessness.
Medical Needs: Individuals whose current housing negatively affects their health.
Overcrowding: Families living in accommodation that is too small for their household size.
Domestic Violence or Abuse Victims: Applicants fleeing unsafe environments.
Armed Forces Members: Special consideration is given to veterans and serving personnel under specific schemes.
What Happens if You Move from One Council to Another?
If you move to a new council area, your housing application does not automatically transfer. Instead:
Reapply with the New Council: You will need to register and provide evidence of your local connection to the new area. o Some councils as stated above have minimum residency requirements (e.g., living in the area for 2-5 years).
Priority Reassessment: Your banding or priority may change depending on the new council’s housing policies and your current situation.
Exceptions for Special Circumstances:
Refugees or ARAP/ACRS case holders may retain priority due to their specific status.
Victims of domestic abuse or individuals fleeing unsafe conditions may not need to meet the local connection requirement.
Implications for Waiting Time: Moving can reset your waiting time unless your new council agrees to honor your previous application.
Tips for a Successful Application
Be Thorough: Provide all requested documents and accurate details.
Communicate Regularly: Keep in touch with your council’s housing department to check on your application status.
Seek Advice: Organisations like Shelter or Citizens Advice can assist with applications or appeals.
Consider Alternative Options: Explore housing associations or private rentals if council housing is not immediately available.
USPUK Afghan team is ready to assist you.
For further information, feel free to reach out to us on WhatsApp at +447360861633 or via email at afghanistan@uspuk.org.
*Information last undated on 20.01.2025
**The content in this pack is for informational purposes only. It is not professional advice. Seek guidance from relevant experts or authorities for specific concerns or decisions.